Social Determinants of Health

Download or read book Social Determinants of Health written by Richard G. Wilkinson and published by World Health Organization. This book was released on 2003 with total page 34 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Poorer people live shorter lives and suffer higher levels of ill health than the more affluent in society, and this disparity highlights the sensitivity of human health to socio-economic factors. This booklet examines this social gradient in health and explains how psychological and social influences affect physical health and longevity. It also considers the role of public policy in promoting a social environment that is more conducive to better health. Topics discussed include: stress, early childhood health, social exclusion, work, unemployment and job insecurity, social support networks, the effects of alcohol and other drug addictions, food and nutrition, and healthier transport systems.