All articles tagged with #social determinants
AI analysis of nearly 300,000 ECGs reveals that financial strain and food insecurity are the strongest social factors linked to accelerated heart aging and increased mortality risk, surpassing some traditional medical risk factors, suggesting a need for broader screening in cardiovascular health assessments.
Research indicates that voting behavior is strongly linked to future mortality risk, potentially more than education, with non-voters facing a significantly higher risk of death, especially from external causes, suggesting voting as a key social determinant of health.
A study from Wake Forest University found that living in disadvantaged neighborhoods with higher social and environmental burdens is associated with biological changes in the brain that increase dementia risk, especially among Black populations, highlighting the impact of social inequities on brain health.
A new study estimates that over two million Americans went 'missing' from the population during 2020 and 2021 due to excess deaths compared to other wealthy nations, highlighting long-standing health disparities and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, with many deaths potentially preventable through better healthcare and social policies.
A study by Wake Forest University reveals that living in disadvantaged neighborhoods is linked to higher blood pressure and lower cognitive performance, even in those without mild cognitive impairment. The research highlights how poor social and economic resources exacerbate cardiometabolic health issues and cognitive decline, emphasizing the need to address social determinants of health to mitigate dementia risks.
Global mental health leaders are shifting from a traditional biomedical model to a rights-based, culturally inclusive approach. This new framework emphasizes addressing social determinants, incorporating lived experiences, and leveraging diverse cultural healing methods. The aim is to create community-centered strategies that respect local contexts and improve mental health outcomes. The Lancet article outlines five transformative principles to revamp mental health systems, advocating for a holistic, biopsychosocial model that challenges the dominance of the biomedical approach.
The article argues that the high prevalence of mental health issues is largely due to environmental factors rather than individual deficiencies. It suggests that instead of solely relying on medication and self-care products, addressing social determinants like economic security, meaningful relationships, and community activities can significantly improve mental health outcomes. Social prescriptions, which include nonmedical resources and community-based activities, are highlighted as effective tools in treating the root causes of mental health problems.
A study conducted by Boston University found that Black women who experienced perceived interpersonal racism had a 38% higher risk of stroke over a 22-year period. The study examined the impact of racism in employment, housing, and interactions with police on stroke incidence. Black individuals already face higher rates of stroke and stroke-related mortality compared to other racial groups. The study highlights the importance of addressing racism as a social determinant of health and calls for further research on the impact of racism on stroke risk among Black women with lower levels of education.