Which factor is a social determinant of health?

• A. Genetic predisposition
• B. Income level
• C. Age
• D. Biological sex

Answer: (B)

Social determinants of health are the conditions in which people are born, grow, work, live, and age, as well as the systems that shape daily life, such as access to resources, education, housing, and economic opportunity. Income level is one of the clearest examples because it directly affects many of these conditions. When someone has higher income, they typically can afford better housing, safer neighborhoods, nutritious food, transportation to health care, and the ability to pay for medical services, all of which support better health outcomes. Conversely, limited income often means greater stress, poorer living conditions, and barriers to care, contributing to health disparities. Genetic predisposition, age, and biological sex are important for understanding individual health risks, but they describe biological traits rather than the social and economic conditions that shape access to resources and opportunities. That’s why income level stands out as a social determinant of health.