Socioeconomic_Determinants_of_Health_Presentation.pptx
- 2. WHAT IS THE DEFINITION OF HEALTH?
- 3. According to WHO: Health isa state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
- 4. Introduction Health is a Multi-dimensional concept that transcends the mere absence of illness Determinants of health are the conditions in the social, physical and economic environment in which people are born, live, work and age, including the access to the health care
- 5. Key Socioeconomic Determinants • Education • Employment and Income • Housing and Neighborhood • Access to Healthcare • Social and Community Networks
- 6. Education as a Determinant • Health literacy: Education improves health literacy enabling individuals to understand health information, make informed decisions and navigate health systems effectively • Health behaviors: Educated individuals are more likely to adopt healthier behaviors, such as exercising, avoiding tobacco and alcohol and eating nutritious foods • Psychosocial factors: Higher levels of education are associated with lower stress levels and better coping mechanisms, which can reduce the risk of mental health disorders and chronic diseases
- 7. Income and Employment Access to Healthcare Services: Higher income often provides better healthcare options, including private insurance, higher quality hospitals, specialists and timely medical care. Lower-income urban communities often have higher rates of diabetes, heart disease, and respiratory illnesses due to limited access to healthcare and preventive services
- 8. Affordability of Treatment: Those with stable employment and higher income can more easily pay for the costs of medications, diagnostics and treatments. Work Environment and Health: Secure jobs with fair wages and safe working environments, and health benefits promote better physical and mental health. Jobs with poor working conditions lead to higher stress levels, increased risk of injury, illness and psychological stress. Higher income leads to better living conditions
- 9. Housing and Environment Living conditions: Safe, stable and affordable housing is essential for maintaining good health. Poor housing conditions such as overcrowding, dampness, mold and inadequate heating are linked to respiratory problems, infectious diseases and other health issues Access to Basic Amenities: Housing with access to clean water, sanitation and proper ventilation reduces the risk of communicable diseases and other health problems especially in children and vulnerable populations
- 10. Exposure to Environmental Hazards: The physical environment plays a critical role in health. Individuals living in polluted areas, such as near industrial sites or areas with poor air quality, face higher risks of respiratory diseases, cardiovascular issues, and cancer. Climate and Natural Disasters: Vulnerable housing environments prone to natural disasters (floods, heat waves, etc.) or extreme weather conditions can lead to injury, displacement, and long-term mental health effects. Climate change also exacerbates these risks, increasing the burden on healthcare systems.
- 11. Healthcare Access Access to Healthcare: Proximity to hospitals, clinics, and availability of healthcare services vary greatly between wealthy and poorer neighborhoods. Urban residents may face barriers such as transportation issues, limited clinic hours, or lack of insurance. Clinicians can advocate for policies that improve access, such as telemedicine options or extended hours. Building partnerships with community organizations can help connect patients with resources for housing, nutrition, and mental health services (social workers).
- 12. Social and Community Networks Emotional Support: Strong social networks provide emotional support, which is essential for mental health. Having friends, family, or support groups helps individuals cope with stress, anxiety, and life challenges, reducing the risk of mental health disorders like depression and anxiety. Health Behaviors: Social networks influence health behaviors through shared values, norms, and habits. Individuals who have supportive social connections are more likely to engage in healthy behaviors, such as regular exercise, smoking cessation, and healthy eating, and less likely to engage in harmful behaviors like substance abuse.
- 13. Access to Information: Social networks act as channels for health information, increasing awareness of preventive measures, treatment options, and healthcare resources. Well-connected individuals are more likely to seek care early, make informed healthcare decisions, and adhere to treatment plans. Community Support Systems: Communities that are cohesive and offer strong social support systems (e.g., religious groups, volunteer organizations, or local health initiatives) provide a safety net for individuals, especially in times of illness, unemployment, or financial hardship. These networks promote resilience and help mitigate the effects of adverse life events. Reduced Social Isolation: Communities that offer spaces for interaction, such as recreational centers, parks, or communal events, help reduce social isolation, which is a significant risk factor for poor mental health, substance abuse, and even chronic conditions like heart disease.
- 14. Conclusion Socioeconomic determinants such as income, education, and housing have a profound influence on healthcare outcomes in urban settings, creating inequalities in health status across different populations. Call for Holistic Approaches: Addressing these issues requires comprehensive strategies that go beyond healthcare—improving education, reducing income disparities, and living conditions must be part of the solution. Collaborative Efforts: Effective urban healthcare reform will rely on collaboration between policymakers, healthcare providers, urban planners, and community organizations to ensure equitable access to healthcare for all.