Social determinants of Health, such as access to food, housing, education, job security, and climate change, are factors that significantly impact people’s health outcomes and well-being. These nonmedical factors, despite not being part of the healthcare system, contribute to health disparities and have a substantial influence on individuals’ daily lives.
Recognizing the importance of addressing social determinants of health, Healthy People 2030 has made it a key focus in the nation’s objectives for improving health and well-being. In North Carolina, state health leaders launched the Healthy Opportunities Pilot project in 2022, which aims to address people’s non-medical health needs through the Medicaid program by providing healthy food boxes and assistance with rent payments.
At the Minority Health Conference at UNC Chapel Hill, speakers discussed the impact of social determinants of health on mental and physical health, particularly the stresses associated with these factors and their disproportionate effects on disadvantaged populations. The conference highlighted how stress can lead to chronic diseases and emphasized the importance of promoting equity related to social determinants of health in public health practice.
Dr. Iheoma U. Iruka, founding director of the Equity Research Action Coalition, emphasized the role of early childhood development in shaping children’s health outcomes. She discussed how children are influenced by their environment and stressed the need to protect children from societal stressors, including racism and discrimination.
Professor Chantel Martin discussed how exposures in the social and physical environment impact health outcomes and contribute to health disparities. She highlighted the accelerated aging process experienced by Black adults compared to white adults and emphasized the importance of understanding the environmental contexts that contribute to these disparities.
As public health researchers and leaders work to address health inequities, they also acknowledge the stress that comes with this work. It is essential to consider the influence of social determinants of health on individuals’ health outcomes and well-being, while also recognizing the need for self-care and support in navigating these challenges.
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