“Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity” (World Health Organisation (WHO) 1948). Health is greatly influenced by the social determinants of health. The social conditions in which people live strongly effect their likelihoods to be healthy. Factors such as poverty, food insecurity, social exclusion and discrimination, poor housing, unhealthy early childhood conditions and low occupational status are important determinants of most diseases, deaths and health inequalities within countries (WHO 2004). Health is influenced, either positively or negatively, by the social determinants of health. People who are less well off or who belong to socially excluded groups tends to be at a disadvantage in relation to these social determinants and this can have a negative impact on the individual’s health. …show more content…
et al., 2010). It is an important issue in Ireland. It has been estimated that 5,400 fewer people would die prematurely each year across the island of Ireland by dealing with social deprivation and inequalities, matching death rates of Europe (Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, Northern Ireland 2002) Nursing is greatly affected by the social determinants, thus nurses needs to understand the impact of these factors on the individuals and groups. This key information may affect the choice of intervention and the need for other community resources. At a broader level, nurses can use their knowledge to advocate for progressive policies that address the social determinants of health. The promotion of health is affected by social