Public health disparities are shaped by a complex interplay of factors, including socioeconomic conditions, dietary habits, and disease burdens. While obesity has long been a focus of attention in the realm of public health, the prevalence of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, has been steadily increasing. This study explores the global relationships between public financial prosperity and two seemingly disparate health issues: obesity and IBD. Analyzing extensive global datasets, we find that public financial abundance, including factors like GDP per capita and access to healthcare, exhibits more robust associations with the prevalence of inflammatory bowel diseases than with obesity. Our research suggests that the burden of IBD is disproportionately influenced by economic prosperity, access to healthcare, and environmental factors. This study offers insights into the complex interactions between public financial well-being, dietary habits, and health outcomes. By highlighting the stronger connection between economic factors and IBD, we underscore the need for a holistic approach to public health policies that address the multifaceted determinants of health, including non-communicable diseases like IBD. These findings encourage a reevaluation of public health priorities to ensure that a broader range of health issues is considered in policy-making and resource allocation.
