Continuing Social Determinants of Health

    Given the current multidisciplinary approaches to address the role of the social determinants of health, what new research or trends might impact how health professionals approach health disparities? As the health field continues to advance, the underlying causes and solutions for health issues will be revealed. Yet, as you have explored throughout this course, there are many causes that may contribute to health disparities observed in different populations. Consider for example how the prevalence of smoking may be influenced by several factors. Are increased prevalence rates in smoking influenced by the availability of cigarettes in vulnerable populations? Is smoking a cultural practice or do environmental influences impact behavior? As a health professional, you may contribute to the design of interventions to address population health issues. Considerations such as access to transportation and health insurance represent important societal and political factors that contribute to health outcomes. Emerging research will continue to challenge health professionals and will establish opportunities to recognize the greater societal implications of health.   select a health issue mental health and illness, and violence and Public health and consider how health disparities influence this health issue. Research two articles/news story from credible, professional, and scholarly sources, and select a current event that demonstrates a lack of access to adequate resources for health insurance or transportation.