Which of the following is a social determinant of health?

• A. Income
• B. Blood pressure
• C. Vitamin D level
• D. Age

Answer: (A)

Income is a social determinant of health because it reflects the economic resources that shape a person’s ability to meet basic needs and access health-supporting opportunities—like nutritious food, safe housing, transport, and timely care. These social and economic conditions influence exposure to risks and the capacity to respond to illness, ultimately shaping overall health outcomes. The other factors listed describe biological or demographic aspects rather than conditions created by social and economic systems: blood pressure is a physiological status, vitamin D level is a biomarker influenced by diet and sun exposure, and age is a demographic characteristic. Therefore, income best fits as the determinant rooted in social and economic structure that influences health.