HLTHAGE 1AA3 Lecture Notes - Lecture 2: Whitehall Study, Complete Control, Behaviorism
10 May 2017
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Could it be explained by biology? (biomedical pov) Social determinants of health is interested in trying to understand what is it about the social environment that might structure someone"s biology and choices. Good health is associated with higher socioeconomic status. As a person"s socioeconomic status increases so does their health. Our range of choices is shaped and limited by socio-cultural, political, and economic. Living conditions determine our health more than medical intervention and lifestyle choices circumstances. Whitehall study: even extends to civil service. Biomedical and behavioural models assume that individuals are in complete control of their choices and that their choices are always rational. What counts as a rational choice might look different to a person depending on their social environment. Social determinants of health wants to understand how choices are made and behaviours and made. Their interventions: pursue health at the cellular level (ex. drugs) or by changing behaviour ex. Ex. cost of food, neighborhood options, poor public transport.
