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Review of Current Research Describing the Influence of Non-health Care Drivers of Health in Rural and Urban Populations

RUHRC Authors: Cecil, J | Youngen, K | Borders, T
Publication Date: 04/20/2026
Full Publication: Review of Current Research Describing the Influence of Non-health Care Drivers of Health in Rural and Urban Populations (opens in new window)

Objective

This report examines the social determinants of health (SDOH) (also called social drivers of health), which are the conditions of the environment where people live, learn, work, and play that are known to affect health outcomes. The primary objective of this literature review is to summarize the most recent literature related to the Healthy People 2030 domains of a) economic stability, b) education access and quality, c) neighborhood and built environment, and d) social and community context. Our particular focus is on non-health care drivers of health. The secondary objective is to identify gaps in literature applied to rural populations.

Suggested Citation

Youngen K, Cecil J, Borders TF. Review of Current Research Describing the Influence of Social Determinants of Health in Rural and Urban Populations.  Lexington, KY:  Rural and Underserved Health Research Center; 2026.