Social determinants of health examples
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Social Determinants of Health: Key Examples and Their Impact
Introduction to Social Determinants of Health
Social determinants of health (SDH) are the non-medical factors that influence health outcomes. These determinants are the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age, and they encompass a wide range of social, economic, and environmental factors . Understanding these determinants is crucial for addressing health disparities and promoting health equity.
Economic Factors: Income and Wealth
Income and wealth are fundamental social determinants that significantly impact health outcomes. Higher income levels are associated with better access to healthcare, healthier food options, and safer living environments. Conversely, low income and poverty are linked to higher rates of chronic diseases and lower life expectancy . For instance, in the United States, individual-level poverty and income inequality have been attributed to substantial numbers of deaths annually, comparable to those caused by major diseases like lung cancer.
Educational Opportunities
Education is another critical determinant of health. Higher educational attainment is associated with better health outcomes, as it often leads to better employment opportunities, higher income, and improved health literacy. Studies have shown that low education levels are a significant contributor to health disparities, with a notable number of deaths attributable to low education . Education also influences health behaviors, such as smoking and physical activity, which are crucial for preventing chronic diseases.
Social and Community Context
Social support and community context play vital roles in shaping health outcomes. Strong social networks and supportive communities can provide emotional support, reduce stress, and promote healthy behaviors. Conversely, social isolation and low social support are linked to poorer health outcomes and higher mortality rates . For example, the number of deaths attributable to low social support is comparable to those caused by significant health issues like lung cancer.
Neighborhood and Built Environment
The characteristics of neighborhoods, including housing quality, access to recreational areas, and availability of healthy foods, significantly influence health. Living in disadvantaged neighborhoods with poor housing conditions and limited access to healthy food options is associated with higher rates of chronic diseases and lower life expectancy . The concept of "walkability" and access to recreational areas are also important, as they encourage physical activity and reduce the risk of obesity and related health conditions.
Healthcare Access and Quality
While SDH extend beyond healthcare, access to quality healthcare remains a crucial determinant. Disparities in healthcare access and quality can exacerbate health inequalities. For instance, marginalized populations often face barriers to accessing healthcare services, leading to poorer health outcomes . Addressing these disparities requires a comprehensive approach that includes improving healthcare access and quality for all individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic status.
Psychosocial Factors
Psychosocial factors, such as stress, discrimination, and mental health, are also significant determinants of health. Chronic stress and exposure to discrimination can lead to adverse health outcomes, including cardiovascular diseases and mental health disorders . Addressing these factors involves creating supportive environments and policies that reduce stress and promote mental well-being.
Conclusion
Social determinants of health are critical in shaping health outcomes and addressing health disparities. Economic factors, educational opportunities, social and community context, neighborhood and built environment, healthcare access and quality, and psychosocial factors all play significant roles. A comprehensive approach that includes public policies, community interventions, and individual support is essential for promoting health equity and improving overall health outcomes. Understanding and addressing these determinants is crucial for creating healthier communities and reducing health disparities.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic