What is a physical determinant of health?

A physical determinant of health refers to environmental factors that directly impact an individual’s health status. The correct choice highlights the presence of toxins in air, food, and water, which can lead to various health issues. Such environmental exposures can result in chronic diseases, respiratory issues, and other health problems, showcasing their critical role in overall health.

While the other options—access to recreational facilities, healthcare policies, and community social networks—are important components of health determinants, they fall within broader categories such as social determinants or systemic factors rather than direct physical influences. Access to recreational facilities, for instance, can influence health behaviors and lifestyles but does not represent direct physical exposure to harmful substances. Similarly, healthcare policies and community networks primarily shape the environment within which health is experienced but do not constitute physical determinants in the way that toxins do.