Reducing Detroit’s Heart Disease Risk: The Role of Social Determinants of Health and Health Behaviors

Authors

Caress A. Dean, Department of Public and Environmental Wellness, School of Health Sciences, Oakland University, Rochester, Michigan, United StatesFollow
Rebecca Milan, Department of Public and Environmental Wellness, School of Health Sciences, Oakland University, Rochester, Michigan, United StatesFollow
Maidah Raja, William Beaumont School of Medicine, Oakland University, Auburn Hills, Michigan, United StatesFollow
Swathi Radhakrishnan, William Beaumont School of Medicine, Oakland University, Auburn Hills, Michigan, United StatesFollow

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Abstract

Introduction: The age-adjusted death rates related to heart disease have been increasing in Detroit, Michigan. Recognizing public health professionals' role in promoting and protecting community health, this study examined the relationship between cardiovascular health and health beliefs, behavior tracking, and social determinants of health among Detroit residents.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was guided by the World Health Organization's conceptual framework of social determinants of health, which classifies social determinants into structural (e.g., socioeconomic factors) and intermediary (e.g., behavioral factors) categories. From May 2019 to August 2021, 394 residents of Detroit were recruited to complete a survey about their current health beliefs and behaviors. Descriptive statistics and adjusted logistic regression analyses were conducted using STATA MP17 to meet the study objectives.

Results: Over 45% of participants self-reported having a heart disease risk factor. A significant number of participants with at least one risk factor for heart disease recognized the importance of regular exercise and a well-balanced diet for maintaining optimal health. Nevertheless, they reported that they did not monitor their daily activity levels (42%; p<0.05) or their consumption of fruits and vegetables (45%; p<0.05). Additionally, participants with a heart disease risk factor had significantly higher odds (adjusted odds ratio = 1.71, 95% CI: 1.01 to 2.89) of reporting needing assistance addressing intermediary determinants of health than structural determinants.

Conclusions: Strategies should center on fostering interprofessional collaborations to address the leading social determinants impacting these communities. By engaging multiple sectors including healthcare, education, and social services, we can develop comprehensive approaches that identify individual health challenges and work towards systemic changes in Michigan.

Recommended Citation

Dean, Caress A.; Milan, Rebecca; Raja, Maidah; and Radhakrishnan, Swathi (2024) "Reducing Detroit’s Heart Disease Risk: The Role of Social Determinants of Health and Health Behaviors," Michigan Journal of Public Health: Vol. 11: Iss. 1, Article 5.
Available at: https://scholarworks.gvsu.edu/mjph/vol11/iss1/5