Social Determinants of Health

The OHTN encourages research that examines the impact of the social determinants of health on the HIV epidemic. Examples of social determinants that influence health and well-being include.
  • Aboriginal status
  • Early life
  • Education
  • Employment and working conditions
  • Food security
  • Gender
  • Health care services
  • Housing
  • Income and its distribution
  • Social safety net
  • Social exclusion
  • Unemployment and employment security

For more information, see the World Health Organization Solid Facts on the Social Determinants of Health.


At the end of 2008, there were approximately 65,000 people living with HIV (including AIDS) in Canada, of whom 26% were unaware of their infection.