This wire service story says that President Obama will sign on Tuesday a bill, the goal of which is to enable more students to be able to afford college and be able to pay back student loans.

The benefit to the nation is that, he says, American will again have the highest college graduation rates in the world. Of late, men, and especially minority males, have shown a decline in college graduation rates. That is why the bill also will emphasize minority colleges and universities.

What does a higher college graduation rate have to do with health?

Whether you consider this fair or unfair, the simple truth is that there is a strong correlation between educational levels and health status. The more schooling one has, the more likely that person is to be healthier.

AP

“President Barack Obama told Americans on Saturday his student loan overhaul should help drive college graduation rates back to the top worldwide and save money in the process.

“Capping a week that saw Congress pass student loan changes in something of a shadow from the landmark health care law, the president cited expected benefits for young people: more student lending, caps on those repayments and more money for minority colleges and universities.”

Source: AP, March 27, 2010