A report released Wednesday found that foreclosures not only have an economic impact, but may also cause medical problems for the people involved.

According to a survey released by the Alameda County Public Health Department and Causa Justa/Just Cause, people undergoing foreclosure experience higher levels of stress and increased medical problems. Tenants living in buildings in foreclosure have similar problems.

The new research builds on a previous study which showed that people living in the areas with the highest rates of foreclosures have life expectancies about 10 years less than in other parts of their counties. 

The report "really highlights much of what we know about communities that are already overburdened by poor health outcomes," said Sandra Witt, deputy director of the Alameda County Public Health Department.

If you or someone you know is facing foreclosure, contact the Maryland foreclosure defense lawyers of Chaifetz & Coyle, P.C. at 443-546-4608 to learn more about your rights.