[PDF] poverty as a social determinant of health

Why is poverty a social determinant?

Poverty is one of the most important social determinants of health. It is associated with increased all-cause mortality, chronic illness burden, adverse early childhood development, exposure to toxic stress, mental health illness and poor educational attainment.

Is income a social determinant of Health?

Income is viewed as a social determinant of health as our income levels dictate the amount of control that people have over their lives. For example, people with higher incomes have greater control over the homes and neighborhoods in which they live, and the quality and quantity of food that they can purchase.

What is the relationship between poverty and ill-health?

Poverty and ill-health are inextricably linked. In both rich and poor countries, the lower an individual’s socio-economic status, the worse their health is. This fact sheet provides an overview of indicators of poverty in First Nations, Inuit and Métis populations; and some strategies aimed at alleviating poverty in these populations.

What is the relationship between poverty and social inequality?

Poverty and social inequality have direct and indirect effects on the social, mental and physical well-being of an individual. It is important to note that poverty and inequality are closely linked. Wilkinson (1997) believed that income inequality produces psychosocial stress, which leads to deteriorating health and higher mortality over time.