Publication:

Determinants of health among the general population in Hubli, Dharwad

Background Health represents a multidimensional concept shaped by cultural, social, economic, and environmental influences. Contemporary understanding emphasizes a holistic approach that integrates physical, mental, social, and spiritual domains to achieve overall well-being. The present study was undertaken to assess various determinants that influence health among the general population of Hubli–Dharwad, with particular attention to the contribution of spiritual health.

Methods A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 200 randomly selected participants from urban and rural practice areas attached to KIMS Hubballi. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire covering demographic, physical, mental, social, and spiritual dimensions of health. Descriptive statistics were expressed in frequencies and percentages, and associations between variables were analyzed using the Chi-square test.

Results Among the 200 participants, 95% reported belief in spirituality; of them, 43 % had overall health scores above the median. Only 10% of the non-believers achieved comparable scores. Significant associations were observed between mental and social health as well as between spirituality and overall well-being (p<0.05).

Conclusion The findings indicate that spirituality, in conjunction with physical, mental, and social well-being, plays a pivotal role in maintaining holistic health. Incorporating the bio-psycho-socio-spiritual model into community health practice may strengthen preventive and promotive health strategies.