Social determinants of health
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Social Determinants of Health: An Overview
Introduction to Social Determinants of Health (SDOH)
Social determinants of health (SDOH) refer to the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age, and the wider set of forces and systems shaping the conditions of daily life. These determinants are responsible for most health inequalities observed within and between countries 156. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines SDOH as the non-medical factors that influence health outcomes, including socioeconomic status, education, neighborhood and physical environment, employment, and social support networks, as well as access to healthcare 6.
Health Equity and SDOH
Health equity is a central theme in the discussion of SDOH. It refers to the fair and just opportunity for everyone to achieve their highest level of health. The literature emphasizes that health equity is often compromised by social determinants, leading to disparities in health outcomes 15. For instance, factors such as low education, racial segregation, and income inequality have been linked to significant health disparities and increased mortality rates 5.
Key Social Determinants of Health
Economic Circumstances
Economic factors, including income, wealth, and employment, are fundamental determinants of health. Studies have shown that economic hardship is associated with poorer health outcomes and higher mortality rates. For example, low income and poverty are linked to increased risk of chronic diseases and reduced life expectancy 456.
Education
Education is another critical determinant of health. Higher levels of education are associated with better health outcomes, as education often leads to better employment opportunities, higher income, and improved health literacy. This, in turn, enables individuals to make healthier choices and access better healthcare services 25.
Social and Community Context
Social support networks and community context play a significant role in health. Social isolation, discrimination, and lack of social support are associated with negative health outcomes, including mental health issues and chronic diseases. Conversely, strong social ties and community engagement can promote better health and well-being 458.
Neighborhood and Built Environment
The physical environment, including housing quality, neighborhood safety, and access to recreational areas, significantly impacts health. Poor housing conditions and unsafe neighborhoods are linked to higher rates of chronic diseases and mental health issues. Access to green spaces and recreational facilities, on the other hand, promotes physical activity and overall health 468.
Health and Healthcare Access
Access to healthcare services is a crucial determinant of health. Barriers to healthcare, such as lack of insurance, high costs, and limited availability of services, can lead to unmet health needs and worse health outcomes. Ensuring equitable access to healthcare is essential for improving population health and reducing disparities 59.
Addressing SDOH to Improve Health Outcomes
Addressing SDOH requires a multi-faceted approach involving policy interventions, community engagement, and healthcare system reforms. Policies aimed at reducing socioeconomic inequalities, improving education, enhancing social support, and creating healthier environments are essential for promoting health equity 57. Additionally, integrating SDOH into medical education and practice can help healthcare professionals better understand and address the social factors affecting their patients' health 5.
Conclusion
The social determinants of health are critical factors influencing health outcomes and health equity. Addressing these determinants through comprehensive policies and interventions is essential for reducing health disparities and promoting the well-being of all individuals. By understanding and acting on the social determinants of health, we can create a healthier and more equitable society.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
Taking stock of the social determinants of health: A scoping review
The social determinants of health (SDOH) concept needs clarification and should be centered on the foundational concept of health equity in all communication methods.
Systematic Review
Rigorous Journal
Highly CitedSocial Determinants of Health
National wealth is associated with better child health when resources are channeled into public and social goods like clean water, sanitation, education, and basic health care.
Highly CitedSocial Determinants of Cardiovascular Disease
Social determinants of health significantly influence cardiovascular disease risk factors and outcomes, but understanding their impact requires interdisciplinary research and targeted interventions.
Literature ReviewRigorous JournalHighly CitedThe Role of Social Determinants of Health in Cardiovascular Diseases: An Umbrella Review
Social determinants of health, particularly economic circumstances and early childhood development, play a significant role in cardiovascular diseases, highlighting the need for multifaceted interventions and inclusion in risk prediction models.
Systematic ReviewAddressing Social Determinants to Improve Patient Care and Promote Health Equity: An American College of Physicians Position Paper
Addressing social determinants of health, such as housing, income support, and care coordination, can reduce health disparities and promote health equity across the population.
Rigorous JournalHighly CitedThe Social Determinants of Health: It's Time to Consider the Causes of the Causes
Socioeconomic factors, such as income, wealth, and education, significantly shape health outcomes, with challenges to advancing this knowledge and addressing them.
Highly CitedSocial determinants of health inequalities
The WHO's Commission on Social Determinants of Health aims to improve health by addressing social factors, promoting societal debate, and recommending policies to address global health inequalities.
Rigorous JournalHighly CitedThe Social Determinants of Chronic Disease.
Social determinants of health (SDH) play a fundamental role in chronic diseases, with smoking and social gradients in mortality being key examples.
Literature ReviewRigorous JournalHighly CitedIncorporation of Social Determinants of Health in the Peer-Reviewed Literature: A Systematic Review of Articles Authored by the National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention
Most articles authored by NCHHSTP have minimal focus on social determinants of health, with health and healthcare being the most represented categories.
Systematic Review