ODPHP Director

Social determinants of Health (SDOH) form the dynamic context for what we experience in our everyday lives. They are not abstract concepts — they are our life circumstances. These circumstances have a major impact on people’s health, well-being, quality of life, resilience, and opportunity to thrive. Yet, as defined, SDOH exist largely outside the healthcare and public health sectors. From this perspective, we need to expand the circles where conversations about improving SDOH take place: to be more inclusive so that all sectors are at the table, empowered and invested in the plan for action that will make us a healthier nation.

At the heart of it, cancers are diseases caused by mutations in genes that ultimately fail to control the way our cells would normally function. Despite the complexity of factors and their interplay that lead to cancer, the evidence unequivocally suggests that there are measures that can be taken to reduce risk. When collectively addressed, these steps can help us to prevent many cancers. Within such a strategy, there are habits to avoid and habits to encourage.

Any discussion of health promotion or disease prevention strategies must reflect on the importance of physical activity. It is that elemental. Along with maintaining good nutrition and emotional health, incorporating regular physical activity can help to prevent multiple chronic diseases and improve the odds of better outcomes should you become ill from various conditions.