Research Symposium

BIO

Conqualla Scott is currently a second-year social work student on a pre-med track. She is from Tifton, Georgia, and currently resides in Tallahassee, Florida. Her interests include journaling, listening to music, and cooking. She is an active student leader on Florida State's campus and enjoys serving and advocating for others with the Unconquered Scholars Program, the National Council of Negro Women, and the Renegade Leadership Honor Society. She aspires to practice medicine in the pediatric field.

Social Determinants and Comorbidity in North Florida

Abstract

Social determinants, such as socioeconomic status or environmental factors, impact the way people live their lives and their overall health and wellbeing. Comorbidity refers to the state of an individual having more than one illness simultaneously. Emerging research indicates that social determinants can increase the likelihood of comorbidity across the lifespan. When considering the relationship between social determinants and comorbidity, the impact that these factors have on minority groups is foundational to understanding its correlation with socioeconomic disadvantages. This present study investigates the relationship between social determinants and comorbidity in a cohort study of young adults of color (aged 18-29) living in North Florida. Quantitative measures of social and physical wellbeing were administered electronically via REDCap and Qualtrics at two-time points (baseline and six-month follow-up). A non-random sample of participants was recruited through online advertisements and flyers. There was a sample size of 207 people in the study. Preliminary results suggest that participants in this sample are experiencing stress, anxiety, and fatigue. This research will be useful in finding solutions to improving the overall health of minorities and socioeconomically disadvantaged individuals.

Keywords: Social determinants, minority groups, comorbidity, public health, prevention, minority health, young adults

Keywords: Social determinants, minority groups, comorbidity