Effects of a Cancer Diagnosis on Economic Prosperity in the Long Run: Evidence from Linked Survey and Credit Data
2024

Effects of Cancer Diagnosis on Long-Term Financial Health

Sample size: 13900 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Warren John, Thomas Amanda, Grodsky Eric, Muller Chandra

Primary Institution: University of Minnesota

Hypothesis

What are the long-term impacts of a cancer diagnosis on debt, wealth, and financial precarity?

Conclusion

Cancer diagnosis is associated with reduced income and increased financial instability.

Supporting Evidence

  • Approximately 40% of Americans will experience cancer in their lifetime.
  • The study analyzed data from a cohort of high school students followed for over 40 years.
  • More than one-third of cancer diagnoses occurred in early adulthood.

Takeaway

Getting cancer can make it harder to earn money and manage finances later in life.

Methodology

The study uses data from a large nationally representative survey linked to consumer credit records to analyze financial outcomes after a cancer diagnosis.

Limitations

The study may not capture all demographic variations and relies on self-reported cancer diagnoses.

Participant Demographics

Participants included individuals from diverse demographic, educational, and family backgrounds, with a focus on those diagnosed with various cancers.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/geroni/igae098.0092

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