Eviction Risk Linked to Higher Mortality Rates During Pandemic
A study published in JAMA found that the mortality rate among renters facing eviction during the first two years of the pandemic was twice as high as expected, with the risk of death for these renters being 2.6 times greater than the general population. Chronic stress from housing instability is believed to be a significant factor contributing to this excess mortality, with potential impacts on physical and mental health. The study also highlighted the cyclical relationship between housing insecurity and health, as well as the potential for inferior housing environments to increase health risks. As public assistance programs like eviction moratoriums end, experts warn that deadly health risks may grow, particularly as rent burdens remain high and eviction filings surpass historical averages.