6. Determinants affecting children’s health

Biological determinants Factors influencing health and development that depend on biology, such as genetics, hormones, body weight, blood pressure, cholesterol and birth weight

Genetics A person’s genetic composition is an important determinant of disease and health Genes are inherited from our parents and determine our physical characteristics Many genetic disorders are inherited e.g. cystic fibrosis, muscular dystrophy, haemophilia, spina bifida and Down syndrome

Birth weight Birth weight is a significant indicator of infant health Babies with low birth weight are more likely to develop disabilities and have a greater risk of poor health Overweight babies may also be at risk of health issues such as diabetes

Body weight An overweight or obese child is more likelt to be overweight or obese as an adult Being overweight or obese as a child can lead to diabetes, heart disease, stress on weight-bearing joints and poor self-esteem Poor eating and a sedentary lifestyle has a detrimental effect on children’s health

Behavioural determinants Factors influencing health and development relating to behaviour and lifestyle choices These include sun protection, eating habits, levels of physical activity, oral hygiene, parental smoking, maternal nutrition and health, alcohol and drug use during pregnancy, breastfeeding, vaccination

Physical environment Factors that have to do with living conditions, access to facilities and environmental factors (such as tobacco smoking and water fluoridation) Access to recreational facilities is also a factor affecting children's’ health

Social environment (family) The influence of family members and the family environment – particularly the influence of parents on the health of children – is a determinant of children’s health Factors include: parental education, parental occupation and employment status, parental income, family stress and trauma, parental health and disability, family and work-life balance, parental practices,

Social environment (community) The broader community – beyond the family unit – and the social environment, are determinants of children’s health Factors include: media, access to social support, neighbourhood safety, access to services (such as healthcare, childcare, preschools and schools)