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Health is about more than access to doctors and medicine. It is shaped by where we live, the air we breathe, the jobs we have, the education we receive, and the social connections we build. These factors—known as the social determinants of health (SDH)—play a fundamental role in shaping our well-being and life expectancy.
In a new report from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), Social Determinants of Health: A Health-Centered Approach to Multi-Sectoral Action, we explore these dynamics in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) and offer insights into how improving these determinants can lead to a healthier future for all.
Why Social Determinants of Health Matter More Than Ever
Health inequities are widespread across the LAC region, often tracing back to deep-rooted social and economic disparities. While the region’s health has improved overall, the remaining burden of poor health falls disproportionately on people who, for example, lack access to safe water and sanitation, education, adequate incomes, nutritious foods, clean air, social services, or safe transportation.
The COVID-19 pandemic showed this clearly, as populations with unstable jobs and poor living conditions and limited health care access were hit hardest. As the region looks to rebuild stronger and more resilient health systems, understanding the social factors that drive health is more important than ever.
Social determinants include demographic and economic factors; local, regional and global environment; and socio-cultural aspects that have distal and proximal impacts on health (Figure 1). The new report highlights several key social determinants that influence health across the LAC region, including:
- Early Childhood Development: The first years of life are critical for brain development, immune function, and long-term well-being. Early interventions—such as good nutrition, responsive caregiving, and quality early education—can improve cognitive skills, emotional resilience, and future health outcomes.
- Environment and Urban Planning: Poor air quality, exposure to toxins, inadequate sanitation, and lack of green spaces increase the risk of respiratory diseases, infections, and mental health issues. Well-planned urban environments with safe housing, clean water, and accessible public transportation promote healthier communities.
- Poverty and Inequality: Financial hardship limits access to healthcare, education, and nutritious food, leading to higher rates of chronic diseases and shorter life expectancy. Addressing income disparities through social protection programs and inclusive economic policies can significantly improve health outcomes.
- Aging and Health: As life expectancy increases, so does the need for healthcare, social services, and age-friendly environments. Ensuring access to long-term care, preventing elder abuse, and promoting active aging can help older adults maintain their independence and quality of life.
The report describes some cases which illustrate how IDB projects have addressed social determinants of health in different countries and sectors. In Bolivia, an IDB program has brought safe drinking water to nearly 200 small communities, which led to a significant drop in diarrheal diseases, particularly among children and adults. In Guatemala, the IDB launched a project in 2021 to promote the use of improved cooking stoves (to replace high reliance on firewood for cooking in rural and indigenous communities. This can reduce the significant health risks and negative environmental impacts of using firewood for cooking, including deforestation and CO2 emissions.
Looking Ahead: Strengthening Health Through Multi-Sectoral Strategies
To reduce health disparities and improve outcomes across Latin America and the Caribbean, it is crucial to address social determinants of health through comprehensive, multi-sectoral strategies. These strategies can draw on existing evidence of cost-effective interventions across various sectors that complement to investments in healthcare systems. The new report highlights several of such interventions.
By addressing the root causes of poor health, we can create environments that empower people—regardless of their socio-economic background—to live healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Want to explore these insights in greater depth? Download the full report here, Social Determinants of Health.
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