Behavioural Determinants of Health
These behaviours are often influenced by other determinants in an individual's life such as the peer group a person associates with and past experiences. However, behavioural determinants are significant in how they can influence the level of health experienced.
Behavioural determinants are influenced by biological, social and physical determinants/environments. Below are some examples as to how these determinants interrelate and impact the behavioural determinant of health.
BIOLOGICAL
- There are a range of behavioural determinants that can impact an individuals biological determinants. Dietary behaviour, physical activity and tobacco use are examples:
- A diet that consumes lots of fruit and vegetables and limited saturated fats, salt and refined sugar can have a positive effect on an individuals body weight, blood pressure and blood cholesterol levels.
- Individuals who exercise regularly can positively influence their body weight and blood pressure outcomes.
- Individuals who smoke tobacco regularly are more at risk of developing certain types of illnesses/diseases such as, emphysema and lung cancer.
SOCIAL
- Individuals who have a lower income are more likely to eat fast food on a regular basis compared to wholesome nutritious foods, due to the higher cost of these foods.
- Individuals who are low SES and smoke cigarettes regularly impact on their financial status due to the expense of purchasing cigarettes
- High alcohol and illicit substance use can negatively impact an individuals employment and education status.
PHYSICAL
- Access to recreational facilities such as, parks, courts and gyms can influence the amount of physical activity an individual participates in.
- Individuals who are surrounded by people who smoke in their physical environment, are more likely to partake in smoking as a result of their environment.
Ryan Serpanchy & Joachim Min Fa