Which is an example of a social determinant of health?

• A. Education level
• B. Housing
• C. Genetic mutation
• D. Bacterial infection

Answer: (A)

Social determinants of health are the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age, shaped by how money, power, and resources are distributed. Education level influences health because it affects health literacy, the ability to understand and follow medical advice, and the opportunity to obtain higher-paying jobs and stable income. With higher education, people often gain better access to healthcare, healthier living conditions, and resources that support healthier behaviors, leading to improved health outcomes. Lower education can limit these resources and opportunities, contributing to poorer health. Housing is also a social determinant because living conditions and stability impact health, but this item highlights education as a clear example of how social context shapes health. Genetic mutation and bacterial infection are biological factors, not social conditions, and thus do not represent social determinants.