Social Determinants And Health Inequities In Marginalized Communities: A Public Health Perspective
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48047/HM.V10.I2.2024.2297-2319Keywords:
Health Disparities, Social Determinants, Marginalized Populations, Public Health Equity, Statistical AnalysisAbstract
Persistent health disparities among marginalized communities reflect deep-rooted structural and social inequalities. These inequities are closely tied to the social determinants of health conditions in which people live, work, and age yet the quantifiable impact of these determinants remains under examined across diverse populations. Addressing this gap is essential to inform equitable public health strategies. This study aims to investigate the relationship between key social determinants such as income, education, housing stability, and access to healthcare and health outcomes within marginalized communities. It seeks to statistically assess how these factors contribute to observed health inequities and identify which determinants exert the greatest influence. Using a cross-sectional, population-based quantitative design, the study draws from national health surveys and demographic databases. Multivariate regression analysis, logistic modeling, and stratified subgroup comparisons are employed to assess correlations between social variables and health indicators, including prevalence of chronic diseases, life expectancy, and access to preventive care. The analysis controls for confounding variables such as age, gender, and geography. Preliminary findings suggest that income inequality and limited educational attainment are the most significant predictors of poor health outcomes. Communities facing housing insecurity and reduced healthcare access exhibit markedly higher rates of preventable conditions. The results reveal statistically significant disparities (p < 0.01) in health metrics linked to compounded social disadvantages. The study underscores the critical influence of social determinants on health inequities in marginalized populations. By quantifying these effects, the research supports policy interventions aimed at structural reform, resource allocation, and targeted health programming. These findings reinforce the importance of integrating social equity into public health planning and evaluation frameworks.
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Copyright (c) 2024 Rehan Shakeel, Hafiz Waqas Ahmed, Sadaf Ahmed, Dr. Ayesha Rais, Dr. Shoaib Zuberi (Author)
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