Social determinants of health

Social determinants of health are the non-medical conditions that shape people’s health, such as where they live, work, learn, and age. They include things like housing, education, income, transportation, food access, social support, and exposure to discrimination or unsafe environments.

What they include

Common examples are:

  • Safe housing and neighborhoods.
  • Education and job opportunities.
  • Income and financial stability.
  • Access to nutritious food.
  • Access to healthcare and transportation.
  • Social support, community safety, and freedom from discrimination.

Why they matter

These factors can affect health as much as, or sometimes more than, medical care alone. For example, a person who cannot afford healthy food or reliable transportation may be more likely to develop chronic disease or delay treatment.

Simple example

Two people with the same medical condition may have very different outcomes if one has stable housing, a good job, and easy access to a clinic, while the other faces poverty, unsafe housing, and no transportation. Their environment changes their chances of staying healthy.

Main idea

Health is not shaped only by genes or doctors. It is also shaped by the social and economic conditions around a person throughout life.

TL;DR: Social determinants of health are the everyday conditions and systems that affect health outcomes, and improving them is key to reducing health inequities.