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The main response to the violent economic crisis that started in 2007 was the implementation and strengthening of belt-tightening policies in many countries. Economic difficulties leave their marks on the bodies and lives of those affected. In this context, austerity and economic recovery policies can have diverse impacts on the health of the population. This article aims to study the uncertain relationship between macroeconomic conditions and health. Has health been more negatively impacted by the economic crisis or by the austerity that followed? While research by economists tends to demonstrate that economic crises are good for health, more recent studies in epidemiology show that in unsteady economic times, the political response is vital. Policies aimed at kickstarting growth save lives, while austerity is a killer.