Social determinants of health (SDOH) are a critical set of factors that influence an individual’s health, extending far beyond medical care. These factors include the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age. These social and environmental influences are crucial because they determine our health outcomes, which influence access to nutritious food to living in a safe neighborhood. With growing recognition of their impact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recognized SDOH as an important factor in promoting health.
In this blog, we will get to know the different angles of SDOH and why they are essential to improving one’s health.
What Are Social Determinants of Health?
Social determinants of health (SDOH) refer to the non-medical conditions that influence a person’s health and quality of life. These factors are often beyond an individual’s immediate control but play an important role in keeping one’s body healthy. The World Health Organization defines SDOH as conditions shaped by economic, social, and political systems that affect people’s daily lives. These determinants include income, education, employment status, housing, and access to healthcare, among others.
For example, a person’s income level affects their ability to afford nutritious food, healthcare, and other necessities. Living in a neighborhood with limited access to healthcare facilities or safe areas for physical activity can also influence health results. SDOH influences the social and environmental conditions that set the stage for individuals to lead healthy or unhealthy lives.
The Importance of Social Determinants of Health
Social determinants of health are not only related to the quality of life but can also affect a person’s life expectancy and risk of developing certain conditions. For example, people living in poverty are more likely to experience poor health due to limited access to resources such as healthcare, nutritious food, and safe housing. Factors like education, employment opportunities, and social connections can either support or create an issue in an individual’s ability to maintain good health.
According to the CDC, SDOH is one of the top three priorities for the Healthy People 2030 initiative, alongside health equity and health literacy. This initiative has addressed 5 national objectives of SDOH, which are healthcare access and quality, education, social and community context, economic stability, and neighborhood and built environment. The aim is to address health issues and improve the overall well-being of the population.
Domains of Social Determinants of Health
SDOH can be categorized into five key domains, each representing a distinct aspect of life that influences health. These domains include:
- Economic Stability: This domain includes factors like income, employment, and job security. A steady income and job benefits such as health insurance and paid time off play an important role in determining health. Individuals facing economic instability may experience higher stress levels and limited access to health care and housing. All of which can lead to poor health outcomes.
- Education Access and Quality: Education is another critical factor that affects health. Higher education levels are linked to better health results, as they often lead to better jobs, higher income, and access to healthcare. Education also influences an individual’s health literacy, enabling them to make more informed decisions about their health.
- Healthcare Access and Quality: Access to affordable and quality healthcare is important to maintain good health. People with health insurance and access to primary care services are more likely to engage in preventive care, receive timely treatment, and manage chronic conditions effectively. However, lack of healthcare access can lead to poor health outcomes, especially in populations with lower income.
- Neighborhood and Built Environment: This domain refers to the physical and social environment in which people live. Factors such as the availability of safe housing, clean air and water, public transportation, and access to healthy food are essential for improving health. Poor living conditions and environmental issues can increase the risk of chronic diseases, while a good environment can promote healthy behaviors and well-being.
- Social and Community Context: The relationships and social networks people have can significantly impact their health. Having strong social support from family, friends, and your healthcare doctor can improve mental health and reduce stress. Other factors, such as social isolation, and discrimination can affect both mental and physical health.
The Impact of Social Determinants of Health on Health Equity
One of the key reasons why social determinants of health are so important is their role in addressing health issues. Health is a term that is dependent on various factors, not just food. However, disparities in SDOH, such as income inequality, lack of education, and discrimination, can create barriers to achieving a healthy lifestyle.
For example, individuals from disadvantaged socioeconomic backgrounds often face multiple layers of hardship, including limited access to quality healthcare, poor living conditions, and food issues. These factors make them prone to chronic diseases, mental health issues, and even early death. On the other hand, addressing SDOH can improve health outcomes for underserved populations, helping to close the gap in health issues.
Addressing Social Determinants of Health in Public Health Initiatives
To address the negative impact of SDOH, public health organizations, and policymakers must focus on creating systems that provide access to resources and opportunities. The CDC, for example, has created initiatives like the Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health (REACH) program, which works to reduce chronic diseases among minority populations. By targeting specific SDOH factors, such as access to healthy food, physical activity opportunities, and healthcare, REACH aims to improve health outcomes in underprivileged communities.
Public health actions can also include creating policies that improve the social environment, such as increasing access to education, affordable housing, and employment opportunities. Healthcare providers can incorporate SDOH into their patient assessments, identifying barriers that patients may face and helping them connect with resources or services that can reduce these challenges.
Overcoming Barriers to Health
While SDOHs are powerful forces in improving health, they are not unbeatable. There are steps that individuals and communities can take to address these challenges. Individuals who face barriers to healthcare access can work with their healthcare providers to find alternative solutions, such as telemedicine or access to community health programs. Communities can also ask for policies that support health care, such as increasing the availability of affordable housing or providing better access to nutritious foods.
It is necessary that though we may not have direct control over some of these social determinants, we can work towards creating environments that provide better health results for all. Through community efforts, policy changes, and targeted public health initiatives, we can begin to tackle the root causes of health issues and promote a better society.
Conclusion
Social determinants of health (SDOH) play an important role in improving the health and well-being of individuals and communities. Several factors, such as income, education, housing, and access to hospitals are necessary to determine health results. SDOH is important to achieve health care and improve public health on a larger scale. The impact of social factors such as policymakers, public health organizations, and individuals can create a happy and healthier society.
