Z55-Z65: Persons with potential health hazards related to socioeconomic and psychosocial circumstances

The ICD-10 code range Z55-Z65 refers to a group of conditions related to socioeconomic and psychosocial issues that can potentially pose health risks. These circumstances do not themselves cause a disease but can contribute to the onset, severity, or progression of various health conditions. For instance, lack of education (Z55) can lead to health illiteracy, thereby adversely affecting personal health management. Problems related to employment and unemployment (Z56) can cause stress and precipitate mental health disorders. Individuals facing problems related to social environment (Z60), such as discrimination or adverse living conditions, may also experience worsened health due to stress or inadequate access to healthcare. These conditions do not have specific symptoms themselves but can exacerbate the symptoms or progression of other diseases. The impact of these conditions can be observed across multiple body systems depending on the individual's overall health and the specific health conditions they have.