Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) are the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age, shaped by the distribution of money, power, and resources at global, national, and local levels. 

These determinants significantly impact an individual's health outcomes and well-being. Recognizing and addressing SDOH is critical for promoting health equity and improving the overall health of populations. The key social determinants of health include:

Economic Stability Income: Poverty and income inequality can have a profound impact on health. Lower-income individuals often face barriers to accessing healthcare, healthy food, and safe housing.

Employment: Job security, working conditions, and access to employment opportunities influence health outcomes. Read more about unemployement here

Education: Educational attainment is closely linked to health. Higher education levels are associated with better health, as education can improve access to employment, income, and health information.

Social and Community Context: Social support: Strong social networks and support systems can promote better mental and physical health.

Social cohesion and community engagement: Communities with high trust and social cohesion tend to be healthier.

Healthcare Access and Quality: Access to healthcare services, including primary care, specialists, and preventive services, is a critical determinant of health.

The quality of healthcare services, as well as cultural competence and affordability, also play a significant role.

Neighborhood and Built Environment: Access to safe housing, clean water, and safe neighborhoods affects health.

The availability of green spaces, walkability, and transportation options can promote physical activity and well-being.

Food Environment: Access to affordable, nutritious food, often called "food deserts" in areas with limited access to healthy food, can lead to poor nutrition and health. Read more about food insecurity here

Public Safety: Community safety and exposure to violence and crime impact physical and mental health.

Social Determinants of Health: Discrimination: Systemic racism, sexism, and discrimination based on factors like race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, and disability can lead to health disparities.

Stress: Chronic stress resulting from discrimination, trauma, and adverse life events can negatively affect health.

Health Behaviors: Lifestyle choices, such as diet, physical activity, substance use, and smoking, are influenced by social determinants and have a direct impact on health.

Early Childhood Experiences: Early life experiences, including prenatal care, childhood trauma, and exposure to toxins, can have lifelong health effects.

Addressing SDOH is essential for achieving health equity. Policymakers, healthcare providers, and community organizations should work collaboratively to implement strategies that mitigate the impact of these determinants on health. 

This may involve interventions such as income support, education programs, affordable housing initiatives, anti-discrimination policies, and efforts to improve community infrastructure and access to healthcare.