Social Determinants of Health and Their Impact on Survival and Disease Progression in Patients with Brain Tumors at Shahid Bahonar Teaching Hospital in 2019

Abstract

Background: Policymakers are increasingly prioritizing social justice in health, with the WHO's "Determinants of Health" framework advocating for equitable health distribution. Social factors such as income, education, and living conditions play a significant role in health outcomes, including cancer. Objectives: This study examines the relationship between social determinants of health and the survival rate of brain tumor patients at Shahid Bahonar Hospital in Kerman, Iran, in 2019. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 363 brain tumor patients, collecting data on demographics, treatment, and social factors. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, with survival rates analyzed through Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression models. Results: The mean age of the patients was 45.6 years, and 53.7% were male. Education, employment, family size, treatment type, and place of residence significantly influenced survival rates. Higher education was associated with longer survival, and employed patients had better survival rates than unemployed individuals. Additionally, smaller family size and combination therapy were linked to improved survival, while urban residents had longer survival compared to those in rural areas. Conclusions: The study highlights the importance of addressing socio-economic disparities to improve brain tumor patient outcomes. Ensuring equitable access to diagnosis and treatment for all individuals is crucial for reducing health disparities and enhancing survival rates.