Türkiye in the Framework of the Preston Curve and Wilkinson Hypothesis: The Transformation of Income Growth, Income Distribution, and Life Expectancy

This study examines the validity of the Preston Curve and Wilkinson Hypothesis in the context of the Turkish economy, analyzing the impact of per capita income, income inequality, and public health expenditures on life expectancy. Using data from 1960 to 2022, graphical analysis and time series methods were employed to investigate the relationships between these variables. The key findings indicate that the Preston Curve is valid for Türkiye, as higher per capita income increases life expectancy, but the effect diminishes beyond a certain income level. A negative and statistically significant relationship was found between income inequality and life expectancy, supporting the Wilkinson Hypothesis. Additionally, public health expenditures positively and significantly influence life expectancy, highlighting the importance of government investments in healthcare. The findings suggest that the impact of economic growth on health indicators is not solely determined by rising income levels but also by the reduction of income inequality and increased public health expenditures. Policy recommendations include expanding healthcare spending, implementing social policies to mitigate income inequality, and addressing regional disparities in healthcare access.