The Senate Select Committee on Social Determinants of Health convened on October 1, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding health disparities in California. The meeting featured a presentation by Dr. Hood, who provided an extensive overview of social determinants of health, emphasizing the profound impact of historical and systemic factors on health outcomes.

Dr. Hood began by defining social determinants of health as non-medical factors that influence health outcomes, including socioeconomic status, education, and access to resources. He highlighted the often-overlooked interplay of race, ethnicity, and systemic racism, arguing that these elements significantly affect health risks and quality of life. He pointed out that many barriers to health are rooted in intentional historical discrimination, citing examples from the past that illustrate how dehumanization and bias have shaped medical practices and perceptions.

The presentation included a historical analysis of racism in medicine, referencing figures such as Georges Leopold Cuvier and Samuel Morton, who perpetuated harmful stereotypes about racial inferiority. Dr. Hood discussed the long-term effects of these ideologies, linking them to current health disparities faced by African Americans and Native Americans. He noted that these populations continue to experience higher rates of chronic diseases and lower life expectancies, which he attributed to a legacy of structural racism and discriminatory policies.

Dr. Hood also introduced the concept of epigenetics, explaining how environmental stressors can alter gene expression and contribute to health issues. He presented data from San Diego, illustrating significant disparities in life expectancy across different regions, which correlate with socioeconomic status and racial demographics.

The discussion underscored the importance of addressing these disparities through systemic change. Dr. Hood concluded by emphasizing the economic burden of health disparities, citing a 2023 study that estimated these disparities cost the U.S. economy over $451 billion in 2018 alone. He advocated for investments in removing structural barriers associated with social determinants of health as a means to improve health outcomes and reduce costs.

Following Dr. Hood's presentation, the committee welcomed Dr. Nadine Burke Harris, California's first surgeon general, who is recognized for her work in pediatric health and wellness. The meeting highlighted the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address the social determinants of health and their impact on vulnerable populations in California.