Publication:

Understanding diseases through the biopsychosocial model: a narrative review

Health and disease are affected by complex interaction of biological, psychological and social factors. Modern understandings now encompass a more holistic approach of disease causation through the biopsychosocial model, which was formerly dominated by the biomedical model, which only focused on genetic and physiological factors to illness. The aim of the study was to review the interactions of biopsychosocial factors in disease causation and their implications for health outcomes. A narrative review of literature was conducted, synthesizing evidence on various factors of disease causation starting with biological factors (age, gender, race, genetics, pregnancy), psychosocial factors (stress, social support, health literacy, cultural beliefs, living conditions), and environmental influences (physical and psychosocial work environment). Biological predispositions interact with psychosocial stressors, environmental exposures, and cultural norms to shape disease risk and progression. Chronic stress, a lack of social support, and health literacy are examples of psychosocial factors that not only directly impact mental health but also alter the course of physical illness. Understanding disease through the biopsychosocial perspectives can guide the development of integrated, person-centered prevention and treatment strategies in both physical and mental health care.