Name three social determinants of health.

• A. Education.
• B. Income/Poverty.
• C. Housing.
• D. All of the above.

Answer: (D)

Think about health as something shaped by more than biology—the surroundings and circumstances people experience daily. Education, income/poverty, and housing are all classic social determinants of health because each one influences health outcomes in important ways.

Education affects health through health literacy, the ability to understand and use health information, and through better job prospects and income, which open up access to resources like nutritious food, preventive care, and safer neighborhoods. Income or poverty level directly impacts what people can afford, from healthcare and medications to healthy food and transportation. Housing quality and stability shape exposure to environmental hazards, stress, crowding, and safety, all of which affect physical and mental health.

Since the question asks for three social determinants, including education, income/poverty, and housing together best captures the range of factors that can influence health at the population level. Recognizing these determinants helps explain health disparities and points to interventions such as improving educational opportunities, reducing poverty, and ensuring safe, affordable housing.