Understanding the Five Social Determinants of Health

Social Marketing
A person in a white shirt stands in the foreground, with a collage of buildings, a person using a laptop, an ambulance, and a pack of pills in the background. An "asg" logo is in the upper right corner.

by Jason O’Brien

In the world of healthcare, it’s increasingly recognized that health outcomes are not solely determined by access to medical care or genetics. Instead, a myriad of social factors, known as social determinants of health (SDOH), play a pivotal role in shaping an individual’s well-being. These determinants encompass a range of economic, social, and environmental factors that influence health outcomes and disparities. Understanding and addressing these factors are crucial steps towards achieving health equity and improving overall public health. These are the five key social determinants of health and their significance in shaping the health landscape of our communities.

  • Economic Stability: Economic stability stands as a fundamental pillar in determining health outcomes. Financial resources directly impact access to healthcare, nutritious food, safe housing, and education. Individuals facing economic hardships often experience higher levels of stress, limited access to healthcare services, and inadequate nutrition, which can lead to chronic health conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity. Moreover, economic instability often intersects with other social determinants, exacerbating health disparities among marginalized communities. Addressing economic inequality through policies that promote employment opportunities, income support, and affordable housing is vital in fostering healthier communities.
  • Education Access and Quality: Education plays a pivotal role in shaping health outcomes across a lifespan. Higher levels of education are associated with better health behaviors, increased access to healthcare services, and improved socioeconomic status. Conversely, limited educational opportunities can perpetuate cycles of poverty and poor health outcomes. Educational access influences health literacy, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and navigate healthcare systems effectively. Investing in quality education, early childhood development programs, and initiatives that promote lifelong learning can mitigate health disparities and foster healthier communities.
  • Social and Community Context: Social and community factors significantly impact health outcomes and well-being. Social support networks, community cohesion, and access to resources shape individuals’ ability to maintain healthy lifestyles and navigate healthcare systems. Strong social ties and community engagement are associated with better mental health, resilience, and overall well-being. Conversely, social isolation, discrimination, and lack of community resources contribute to poor health outcomes and disparities. Building inclusive communities, promoting social cohesion, and addressing systemic inequalities are essential steps in fostering supportive environments that promote health equity.
  • Health Care and Quality: While access to healthcare is a critical component of health equity, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. Disparities in healthcare access and quality persist, particularly among underserved and marginalized populations. Barriers such as lack of health insurance, transportation issues, language barriers, and cultural competency contribute to disparities in healthcare utilization and outcomes. Improving healthcare access involves addressing structural barriers, expanding coverage, enhancing healthcare infrastructure, and promoting culturally responsive care. Additionally, focusing on healthcare quality, patient-centered approaches, and preventive care initiatives are essential in ensuring equitable health outcomes for all.
  • Neighborhood and Built Environment: The neighborhoods and physical environments in which individuals live, work, and play have profound effects on their health and well-being. Access to safe housing, clean air and water, healthy food options, parks, and recreational facilities significantly influence health outcomes. Residents of disadvantaged neighborhoods often face environmental hazards, such as pollution, crime, and inadequate infrastructure, which can contribute to chronic stress and health disparities. Investing in urban planning, environmental regulations, affordable housing initiatives, and community development efforts can create healthier built environments and mitigate health inequities.

Addressing the social determinants of health is paramount in advancing health equity and improving population health outcomes. By recognizing the interconnectedness of economic, social, and environmental factors, policymakers, healthcare providers, and communities can implement targeted interventions to address disparities and create healthier, more equitable societies. Initiatives aimed at promoting economic stability, education access, social support networks, healthcare access, and neighborhood environments are essential in fostering health equity and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to lead a healthy and prosperous life. Ultimately, by addressing the root causes of health inequities, we can build healthier communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.