The Prevention of Social Inequalities in Oral Health

These flashcards cover key concepts related to social inequalities in oral health, their causes, and implications.

Social Inequalities in Health

Differences in illness or death experiences between groups classified by social indicators.

Deprivation

A condition characterized by a lack of material resources and social opportunities, adversely affecting health.

Gradient

The observed pattern of health outcomes that decreases or increases from more affluent to more impoverished groups.

Mortality

The incidence of death within a specified population.

Black Report

A comprehensive report published in 1980 that reviewed health inequalities in the UK, highlighting disparities based on occupational classes.

Health Divide

Refers to the differences in health status and access to healthcare across social groups, particularly addressed in the Black Report.

Upstream Policy

Interventions aimed at addressing the root causes of social inequalities, influencing societal change.

Downstream Policy

Interventions targeting immediate health services and benefits, often addressing symptoms of broader inequalities.

Cultural/Behavioural Explanation

A theory suggesting that health-related behaviours, such as smoking and diet, lead to observed health inequalities.

Material or Structuralist Explanation

An explanation focusing on external conditions, such as environment and housing, as determinants of health.

Social Exclusion

A condition wherein individuals or groups face barriers to participation in societal activities due to various disadvantages.

Acheson Report

A 1998 report that revisited health inequalities, suggesting the need for broad-based policies to address social determinants of health.

Fluoridation

The addition of fluoride to water, aimed at reducing dental caries, particularly significant in addressing health inequalities.

Inverse Care Law

A principle stating that those who need healthcare the most are often the least likely to access it effectively.

Epidemiological Programme

A series of surveys used to monitor and understand the patterns of oral health among different social classes.

Carstairs & Morris Index

A measure of deprivation that uses various indicators to evaluate the socio-economic status of individuals and areas.