Socio-Economic Demographics and Health Status of the Residents of a Hinterland Community in Negros Island, Philippines

Abstract

To address health and educational disparities in Philippine hinterland communities, this quantitative study profiled the socioeconomic and health status of 163 household heads in a Negros Island community. Using the RAND 36-Item Health Survey, the analysis revealed that while the predominantly female, older, and unemployed population generally reported good health despite high rates of hypertension, specific demographic factors significantly influenced outcomes: older age reduced physical energy, unemployment hindered social functioning, and low income compromised emotional well-being. These findings suggest that while socioeconomic determinants are critical, they are mediated by individual resilience. Consequently, sustainable health improvements in regions like Guihulngan City require multi-faceted interventions that prioritize vulnerable populations through community-based physical and mental health programs, social support systems, and policy reforms addressing root economic drivers, validated by future longitudinal research.