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Determinants
of
Health

Our lifestyle choices affect our health, but these choices are often influenced by factors more significant than ourselves. These are often referred to as the Determinants of Health, which are the broad range of personal, social, economic and environmental factors that determine individual population health.

Social determinants of health refer to a specific group of social and economic factors within the broader determinants of health. These relate to an individual's place in society, such as income, education or employment. Experiences of discrimination, racism and historical trauma are important social determinants of health for certain groups such as Indigenous Peoples, LGBTQ and Black Canadians. These factors are complex. Community health networks have a unique role to take action on the determinants of health to improve the overall health of the community.  

To explore how Indigenous people approach health, wellness and determinants of health here are some useful resources:

Social Determinants of Health Include

Education & Literacy

Access to quality education for children and lifelong learning for adults are key contributors to health for individuals and for the community. Education contributes to health by equipping people with knowledge and skills for problem solving and can provide a sense of control over life circumstances. Education increases opportunities for employment and income security, and job satisfaction.

Childhood Experiences

Child development is a powerful determinant of health as quality early childhood experiences impact lifelong health and well-being. 

Diversity & Inclusion 

Some persons or groups face additional health challenges due to factors that are outside of their control such as their identity, race, language, ability or culture. Eliminating marginalization and stigmatization will contribute to improved health outcomes.

Accessibility

Accessibility means that everyone can use all the spaces and places in our community. It also means that they can get the information they need. To ensure health and equity for all a community needs to provide the supports and opportunities necessary for people with diverse abilities to participate in their community.

Income & Social Status

Health status improves as income and social status increase. Living conditions such as safe housing and the ability to buy enough good food are critical to good health. The healthiest societies are those with populations that are prosperous and have an equitable distribution of wealth. 

Connection to the Land (Land, Water & Environment

Land includes the ocean, air, food and all of nature. Being connected to the land improves our health. We have a responsibility to take care of the land because land and health are closely intertwined– our land is the ultimate nurturer of people.  

Housing

Appropriate housing is a necessity for living a healthy life.  Living in safe, affordable and secure housing reduces the risk of many health problems.

Transportation

The design of transportation systems significantly impacts physical and psychological well-being by influencing accessibility to services and engagement in communities. Easily walkable, bike-able, transit-oriented communities are associated with healthier populations.

Employment/
Working Conditions

Unemployment, underemployment, and stressful or unsafe work are associated with poorer health.

People who have more control over their work circumstances and fewer stress-related demands of the job are healthier and often live longer than those in more stressful or riskier work and activities.

Social Supports and Connections

Support from families, friends and community is associated with better health. Strong support networks, both within families and within the community, can increase coping in difficult times. The caring and respect that occurs in social relationships, and the resulting sense of satisfaction and well-being, support physical and mental health.

Food Security

When people are food secure and eat a healthy, diverse diet they live with greater dignity and higher physical and mental health.

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