Additional Resources and Publications

Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) in Tennessee – 2022 BRFSS Findings

To read the full report click here.

Understanding SDOH
Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) are conditions where people live, work, and play that significantly influence health and wellbeing. These factors include access to food, housing, education, and healthcare. In Tennessee, SDOH data collected in the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) underscores the connection between these social conditions and health outcomes, with disparities often tied to economic and racial inequities.

2022 Key Findings from Tennessee

  • Over 50% of Tennesseans reported at least one SDOH risk factor, with 14% experiencing four or more.
  • Communities of color reported higher SDOH risk factors compared to Non-Hispanic White Tennesseans, highlighting inequities.

To read the full report click here or on the image above.

  • Individuals with poor mental health, depression, or lacking insurance more commonly faced higher SDOH risks.
  • Smoking and limited physical activity were linked to increased SDOH risk factors.

Impact on Health
Higher SDOH risk scores correlate with poorer mental and physical health, reduced access to healthcare, and barriers like cost or lack of insurance. Addressing SDOH is essential to improving overall health outcomes and fostering equity across Tennessee.

Efforts to Address SDOH
The Tennessee Department of Health is dedicated to tackling SDOH through initiatives like:

  • Healthcare Access: Programs such as CHANT and local health departments improve resource availability.
  • Economic Stability: WIC and nutrition assistance support families in need.
  • Healthy Environments: Grants for livable communities and efforts through County Health Councils.
  • Health Disparity Reduction: Targeted programs for minority and rural populations.