Social Determinants and Health Inequalities in the Americas And the Caribbean: Scoping Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12707/RVI25.41.41284Keywords:
social determinants of health, public health, population health, caribbean region, health inequalitiesAbstract
Background: Health inequalities in the Americas and the Caribbean are strongly influenced by Social Determinants of Health (SDOH), reflecting structural disparities that directly affect population well-being.
Objective: To map the SDOH addressed in scientific literature from the region over the past decade, identifying patterns, challenges, and implications for health equity.
Methodology: A scoping review was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute framework and PRISMA 2024 checklist, with protocol registered in the Open Science Framework. A total of 30 studies published between 2015 and 2024 were analyzed, covering nine countries.
Results: The main SDOH identified were racial and residential segregation, food insecurity, mental health, access to healthcare, gender, education, immigration, and sanitation. The most represented countries were Brazil, the United States, and Canada.
Conclusion: The findings show that inequalities related to race, education, housing, and mental health are critical determinants of health inequities. The mapping highlights the urgency of intersectoral policies and professional training strategies aligned with these challenges, supporting the development of more equitable and responsive health systems.
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