Social determiners of health

Social determiners of health

Health differences among individuals are defined by social elements such as education, lifestyle, age, and living condition. Also, factors such as social contexts (gender inequalities, career, education level, etc.) play a significant role in influencing the health of populations. According to Saunders (2017), social addressing social determiners of health of people may improve the well-being of people as well as reduce health inequalities across nations. The primary social, economic, and environmental conditions in which people are born, grow up, live, and work. These conditions are unequally and well-being across the populations’ life-course.

Susan is a 60 years old patient with a history of hypertension as well as dyslipidemia. According to clinical examinations, she experiences chest problems, and her vital signs show that she has an abnormal heart rate and respiratory rate. Although Susan has no heart problem, her heart murmurs. Though she is under cholesterol management medication, she is not taking the medication as expected. She hates pills and does not exercise regularly and does not observe a healthy diet.

Susan’s social history has a lot to do with her current health condition. Although she is not a smoker, drunkard, and does not use recreational drugs, she is taking fast foods, and exercises do not exercise regularly. Also, her family has a history of heart attacks and diabetes. As such, the problem with her chest condition and medical attention is necessary.

A combination of long-term clopidogrel therapy, percutaneous coronary intervention, and aspirin has a higher chance of reducing the risk of adverse ischemic events (Saunders, 2017). Susan needs this medication to manage her chest pain. Also, workouts are necessary to manage their weight.

Conclusively, social determiners of health are vital in the well being of populations across the world. Family history, living conditions, and age are the significant social determiners of health that lead to Susan’s health problem. Addressing these conditions plus taking the necessary medications may resolve her chest pain problem.

References:

Saunders, M., Barr, B., McHale, P., & Hamelmann, C. (2017). Key policies for addressing the social determinants of health and health inequities (pp. 1-5). New York: World Health Organization.