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SOCIAL DETERMINANTS OF HEALTH
The social determinants of health are factors and conditions that interact
to influence the health of individuals and communities. A Population Health Approach The Ministry of Health uses a population health approach
to measure the health of British Columbians. The Federal/Provincial/Territorial
Advisory Committee on Population Health defines population health as: "the health
of a population as measured by health status indicators and as influenced by social,
economic and physical environments, personal health practices, individual capacity
and coping skills, human biology, early childhood development and health services." Social Determinants that Influence Health A population health approach recognizes that not everyone
has the same access to the services and supports that can help them to maintain
their health. The availability of these services and supports can decrease the
risk of HIV exposure for some individuals and influence the management of HIV/AIDS. Safe and secure housing, jobs, adequate income support and
access to health, social and addictions services are examples of social determinants
that influence health and well-being.
Other social determinants that can influence health are: - poverty;
- education;
- gender
orientation;
- income and job security;
- early childhood experiences;
- abuse;
- alcohol
or substance misuse;
- discrimination;
- lack of caring and supportive
family and friends;
- access to health services; and
- lack of respect
for social and cultural diversity and equality.
Reducing
the number of new HIV infections and improving the health and well-being of those
already infected with HIV depends on changing the social determinants that place
people at risk of HIV infection. Leading
the Fight Against HIV/AIDS The
Ministry of Health is taking a leadership role in addressing the social determinants
of health and developing healthy public policies and programs. Working
with the Interministry Committee on HIV/AIDS,
the Ministry of Health is coordinating HIV/AIDS-related activities throughout
government. The Ministry is developing healthy public policies that: - consider
the full range of factors that influence health;
- consider the impact of
public policies on the health status of the general population and groups that
experience poorer health;
- include public, private and voluntary interests,
with the direct involvement of those most affected by the health issue (such as
clients and service providers); and
- focus on sustainable policies that
balance economic, social, environmental and political agendas.
The
province's vision for a healthy population is set out in its health
goals. The health goals provide a framework for action to improve the health
of British Columbians and reduce inequalities in the province.
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Last Revised: December 17, 2007
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