Social determinants of health
Overview
The health of individuals and the groups and communities to which they belong are determined to a large degree by social factors. Within the Australian population, the likelihood of experiencing good physical and mental health throughout life is far from being evenly distributed. Health inequalities both locally and globally are patterned by the social, economic, cultural, historical, political and environmental contexts in which people live.
Collectively, these factors are known as the 'social determinants of health' and they are fundamentally important in terms of influencing health and wellbeing in infancy, childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and old age. Indeed, social factors are as important in shaping and circumscribing health as behavioural, biological and genetic factors. Research and advocacy within this area emphasises the value of social justice and its relationship to reducing health inequality.
Research programs
- Health inequalities
- Social justice
- Health and wellbeing
Projects
This is just a sample of our research activity in this area.
Research enquiries
Health Research Services
- Phone: 3138 8290
- Int. phone: +61 7 3138 8290
- Email: health.research@qut.edu.au
