Social determinants of health associated with psychological distress among users in East Lima, 2024

Vásquez-Yeng J.; Castillo-Quezada I.; Newball-Noriega E.E. · Revista de Salud Publica (2026) · DOI: 10.15446/rsap.v28n1.118886

Resumen

Psychological distress is a state of perceived stress, discomfort, and mental anguish that affects emotional well-being. This public health issue is influenced by social determinants such as socioeconomic status, gender, and social support. Objective To determine the relationship between social determinants and the presence of psychological distress in users of a primary healthcare center in Lima Este. Methods A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted with 244 patients, who were assessed using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10), the Duke-UNK-11 Functional Social Support Questionnaire, and the APEIM Socioeconomic Scale. Descriptive data analysis was performed, and associations between variables were evaluated using bivariate analyses and binary logistic regression. Results A significant association was found between gender, socioeconomic status, and social support with psychological distress (p≤0.05). Being female increased the likelihood of experiencing psychological distress 3.7 times (OR=3.746, 95% CI: 1.98-6.12, p=0.013); belonging to a low socioeconomic status increased the risk 4 times (OR=4.015, 95% CI: 2.11-7.65, p=0.001); and having low social support raised the risk 2.4 times (OR=2.415, 95% CI: 1.34-4.21, p=0.037). Conclusion Being female, belonging to a lower socioeconomic status, and having low social support significantly increase the probability of experiencing higher levels of psychological distress.

Instituciones: Universidad Peruana Unión