how does the concept of “fundamental causes” theory explain persistent health inequalities
The correct answer and explanation is:
The concept of “fundamental causes” theory explains persistent health inequalities by focusing on the root social factors that consistently affect health outcomes across different times and places. This theory was developed by sociologists Link and Phelan to show why health disparities remain even when specific diseases or risk factors change.
Fundamental causes refer to social conditions such as socioeconomic status, income, education, and social networks that influence access to important resources. These resources include money, knowledge, power, and social connections, which can be used to avoid risks or minimize the consequences of illness. Because these social factors control access to flexible resources, they shape health outcomes in multiple ways and across different health problems.
The theory explains why health inequalities persist despite medical advances. Even as new health threats emerge or older ones decline, individuals with greater access to resources can better protect their health and benefit from new knowledge and technologies. For example, wealthier individuals may afford better healthcare, live in healthier environments, or adopt healthier behaviors earlier than those with fewer resources. In contrast, disadvantaged groups often face barriers such as poor living conditions, limited healthcare access, and chronic stress, which maintain health disparities over time.
Another key point is that fundamental causes affect multiple disease outcomes, not just one specific illness. This means that reducing health inequalities requires addressing underlying social inequalities rather than only focusing on particular diseases or risk factors.
In summary, fundamental causes theory explains persistent health inequalities by identifying social conditions that consistently determine who benefits from health improvements and who remains vulnerable. The theory highlights the importance of social policies that target these root causes to achieve long-term reductions in health disparities.