Percepción del estado de salud y factores asociados: caso de estudio provincia de Pichincha.

Abstract

Abstract: This study analyzes how sociodemographic factors influence the perception of health status in the province of Pichincha, using microdata from the National Health and Nutrition Survey (ENSANUT) for the year 2018. Through a descriptive and inferential statistical analysis, this work provides a comprehensive view that goes beyond the traditional clinical approach, demonstrating that subjective well-being is heavily conditioned by structural inequalities. The results reveal that the level of education is the most solid determinant and acts as a protective shield; the higher the schooling, the more well-being ratings steadily improve. Likewise, a clear economic gradient and a marked decline in old age are identified. The main contribution of this research is to empirically demonstrate that health does not depend solely on biological factors, but on the cognitive and material capacities of the environment. This offers a key tool for local authorities to design sector-specific public policies, prioritizing community health literacy, medical infrastructure, and comprehensive care systems for the most vulnerable groups.