Conclusions
In conclusion, delving into the occupational determinants of health
highlights the complex and multifaceted interconnection between work and
well-being. This review’s comprehensive exploration of various
occupational hazards – from physical to psychosocial and environmental
– unequivocally demonstrates their profound impact on individual health
outcomes. These findings align with and extend the existing framework of
social determinants of health.
The results of this study compellingly justify the inclusion of
occupational factors in the standardized list of SDOH. They reveal that
occupational determinants, often overlooked, are as influential as other
recognized social determinants like economic stability and education
access. In many instances, the nature of one’s occupation directly
influences socio-economic status, access to healthcare, and living
conditions, thereby intersecting with, and exacerbating other SDOH.
As workers navigate a dynamic work environment marked by diverse
occupations and evolving demands, it becomes increasingly evident that
the well-being of the workforce is intrinsically linked to broader
social health determinants. This viewpoint contributes to the ongoing
discourse on occupational health, urging a re-evaluation of traditional
SDOH frameworks to encompass occupational factors. Ultimately,
recognizing the role of occupational determinants in public health is
not only an ethical imperative but also a strategic investment in
enhancing the overall health and productivity of the population.