Grant: Catalyst Grant: Moving Upstream - Structural Determinants of Health-POR Approach

Lower extremity amputations (LEAs) are usually caused by diseases like diabetes and heart problems. LEAs have a huge impact on people's lives, affecting their health, emotions, and independence. In Canada, more than 80% of LEAs are linked to diabetes and heart disease, and as these conditions become more common, they put more pressure on the healthcare system. Where people live and the social conditions they face play a big role in their risk of needing an amputation. People in rural or remote areas often have fewer doctors, hospitals, and health resources, which makes them more likely to have amputations. In Quebec, places that are poorer or more isolated also see higher rates of LEAs. Many factors that affect people's health come from things outside their control, called structural determinants of health. These include how economic and social policies affect pay, working conditions, housing, and education. Issues like access to safe housing, transportation, and safe neighborhoods also play a role. Racism, discrimination, and violence, as well as low incomes, can make it harder for some groups to stay healthy. Lack of access to nutritious foods, places for physical activity, clean air and water, and education can all increase the risk of developing diseases like diabetes that can lead to amputations. Even language barriers and low literacy levels can stop people from getting the healthcare they need. This project will explore all these factors to better understand why some people are more likely to need LEAs and what can be done to prevent them. By talking to patients, caregivers, healthcare providers, and decision-makers, the goal is to identify determinants of health that create and perpetuate systems of oppression and privilege that result in inequities in LEAs.