Dahlgren and Whitehead (1992) conceptualise a model that summarises the determinants of health status. In this model they maintain that health is not merely an absence of disease but it is largely influence by other factors such as the individual him/herself, environment and the society.
The model is known as ‘policy rainbow’ the centre of which are the individual characteristics – the constitutional factors that make up an individual such as age, sex and genetic make-up. The lifestyle factors are the first layer after the core. It constitutes the routine of the individual whether the person smokes, eats sensibly or exercises regularly. This layer also involves the risky behaviours that one engages in such as substance abuse. The third layer
The model is known as ‘policy rainbow’ the centre of which are the individual characteristics – the constitutional factors that make up an individual such as age, sex and genetic make-up. The lifestyle factors are the first layer after the core. It constitutes the routine of the individual whether the person smokes, eats sensibly or exercises regularly. This layer also involves the risky behaviours that one engages in such as substance abuse. The third layer