Social determinants of health : a comparative approach

Social Determinants of Health: A Comparative Approach introduces the various elements that determine the health of individuals in their communities.

The text takes a macro-level approach, focusing on population health rather than strictly on individual health.

Social Determinants of Health focuses on "Anglo-American" countries-Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia-examining the commonalities and differences socially, economically, and politically. The text begins by outlining the background, theory, and evidence for a population health perspective.

This is followed by discussion of environmental factors, such as employment, housing, and diet, and social factors such as gender, support and well-being, and being an Aboriginal person.

The text concludes with an overview of the social patterning of health-relevant behaviour and the politics of health-related policy.

Written in an accessible manner, Social Determinants of Healthfurther engages students by offering case studies and "Pause and Reflect" boxes, as well as end-of-chapter questions, suggested readings, and websites.