The Social Determinants of Health In Canada

In Canada, the government recognizes the significance of social determinants of health in shaping the well-being of its citizens. These determinants encompass a wide spectrum of factors, including income, employment, education, childhood experiences, social support, and more, all of which exert a profound influence on the health of individuals and the broader population (Government of Canada, n.d.). While health disparities can be attributed to numerous factors, including genetics and lifestyle choices, it is essential to acknowledge the strong influence of socio-economic disparities, such as unequal access to nutritious food and one's postal code.

Ministerial mandate letters in Canada play a pivotal role in identifying opportunities for intersectoral actions aimed at improving health equity. A review conducted by Lucyk in 2020 of thirty-three mandate letters highlights key commitments. These promises address determinants like income, employment, racism, sex, gender, housing, early childhood, education, and international commitments (Lucyk, 2020). These letters outline government priorities and serve as a valuable tool to navigate the complex landscape of health determinants that extend beyond the healthcare sector. While some of these initiatives explicitly link to health and its determinants, others do not, emphasizing the need for intersectoral partnerships to address determinants crucial for enhancing health equity (Lucyk, 2020). Leveraging initiatives outside the health sector is key to further enhancing health equity, emphasizing the importance of working together across sectors to address health inequalities.

Alberta Health Services (AHS) acknowledges the pressing challenges posed by an increasingly diverse population in the province. AHS recognizes that certain vulnerable groups, such as Indigenous peoples, immigrants, refugees, specific visible minorities, French-speaking Albertans, and those experiencing homelessness, are disproportionately affected by chronic diseases due to barriers related to social determinants of health (AHS, n.d.). In response, AHS is actively developing targeted approaches to address the unique needs of these diverse and vulnerable communities.

For those who prefer a visual approach to understanding the interconnectedness of these determinants of health, The Wellesley Institute has created an educational video titled "Making the Connections: Our City, Our Society, Our Health." This video vividly illustrates how various social factors, from living conditions to work environments, all play a pivotal role in shaping our health and well-being. By addressing these social determinants, we can improve health outcomes and reduce health disparities (Wellesley Institute, 2012).

Canada's commitment to recognizing and addressing the social determinants of health is a crucial step towards achieving health equity. Ministerial mandate letters, intersectoral actions, and targeted approaches by organizations like Alberta Health Services are vital components of this comprehensive effort to reduce health disparities and promote the well-being of all Canadians. The role of social determinants in health cannot be overstated, and it is through collaborative, interdisciplinary efforts that we can hope to create a healthier, more equitable society.

Resources:

Alberta Health Services. (n.d.). Diverse Populations Primary Health Care Resource Centre. Alberta Health Services. Retrieved from https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/info/Page8431.aspx

Government of Canada. (n.d.). What Determines Health? Health Promotion and Population Health. https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/health-promotion/population-health/what-determines-health.html

Lucyk, K. (2020). Intersectoral action on the social determinants of health and health equity in Canada: December 2019 federal government mandate letter review. Promotion de La Santé et Prévention Des Maladies Chroniques Au Canada, 40(10), 314–323. https://doi.org/10.24095/hpcdp.40.10.03

Wellesely Institute. (2012, November 7). Making the Connections: Our City, Our Society, Our Health [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-3mUiGi6bA&t=3s