Social Determinants of Women’s Health in Gujarat: Evidence from NFHS-5

Author(s): Dr. Navinkumar M Rohit

Abstract:

Women’s health outcomes are shaped not only by biological factors but also by a range of social, economic, and cultural determinants. In India, despite improvements in healthcare coverage, persistent inequalities continue to influence women’s health status and access to services. This study examines the social determinants of women’s health in Gujarat using data from the National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS-5, 2019–21). Based on the social determinants of health framework, the paper analyses how education, economic status, caste and tribal identity, place of residence, and women’s decision-making power shape key health outcomes such as maternal healthcare utilisation, nutritional status, and access to health services. The study adopts a descriptive and analytical approach based on secondary data for women aged 15–49 years in Gujarat. Findings indicate that while Gujarat performs better than the national average on several women’s health indicators, substantial disparities persist across social groups and districts. Tribal women, women with low educational attainment, and those residing in rural and economically disadvantaged households continue to experience poorer health outcomes and lower utilisation of health services. The study argues that improving women’s health in Gujarat requires policy interventions that extend beyond healthcare delivery to address underlying social and structural determinants. The paper concludes by highlighting the need for equity-oriented and gender-responsive health policies informed by social work perspectives.

keywords:
Women’s health; Social determinants; Gujarat; NFHS-5; Gender inequality; Public health

Pages: 109-112     |    23 View     |    2 Download