The Economy's Impact on Personal Health: Shopping and Social

The recessionary, sluggish U.S. economy has had an impact on Americans’ mental and physical health. The least healthy citizens have experienced a disproportionately hard hit on their health and health care.

But necessity being the mother of invention, some people are re-inventing their personal workflows in health care — and many of these tactics may well benefit their health in the long run.

The Economy and Health: 10 Observations is the analysis from Euro RSCG‘s survey of U.S. adults’ views on their personal health in light of the continued economic downturn. The first chart shows the economy’s impact on the overall mood of Americans. Note that Euro RSCG segments health consumers as “Prosumers” and “Non-Prosumers.” Prosumers are influential, demanding consumers who are the vanguard, adopting new services and technology before the tipping point...