In Fiji, social determinants of health—such as income, education, employment, housing, and geographic location—significantly contribute to health inequalities.
For example, people living in rural or outer island communities often face limited access to health services, clean water, and transportation, leading to poorer health outcomes compared to those in urban areas. Similarly, low-income families may struggle to afford nutritious food or travel for medical care, increasing their risk of non-communicable diseases.
Education level also affects health; individuals with less education may have limited health literacy, making it harder to understand prevention messages or navigate the healthcare system.
These social factors are interconnected and can compound disadvantage, highlighting the need for public health approaches in Fiji that address not just medical issues, but the broader conditions in which people live.