What does "social determinants of health" refer to?

The term "social determinants of health" refers to the various conditions under which individuals are born, grow, live, work, and age. This concept emphasizes that health is not solely determined by biological or genetic factors, but significantly influenced by social, economic, and environmental conditions.

For instance, factors such as education, income, employment, social support, and access to healthcare all play critical roles in influencing health outcomes. These determinants can contribute to disparities in health among different populations, demonstrating how societal conditions can impact an individual’s ability to lead a healthy life.

The other options represent different aspects of health but do not encompass the broad and multifaceted nature of social determinants. While biological factors and genetic predispositions do play roles in one's health, they are not categorized as social determinants. Similarly, access to medical care is important for health outcomes, but it does not fully capture the overall impact of the conditions in which people live their lives. Recognizing and addressing social determinants is essential for promoting health equity and improving the health of communities.