A new study led by Fatima Sheikh, a PhD student and trainee with Sepsis Canada, has uncovered troubling disparities in sepsis rates across Hamilton, notably in systematically disadvantaged neighbourhoods. The research revealed that residents of the city’s Code Red Zone—a region marked by economic and health inequalities—had more than double the rate of sepsis and sepsis-related deaths compared to other areas. Despite these stark findings, the study found no significant association between sepsis and common social determinants of health (SDoH), raising questions about the consistency and accuracy of data collection on these factors.

The lack of connection between sepsis and SDoH—such as mental illness, smoking, or social support—was unexpected, given the established role these factors play in many health outcomes. Instead, the study found that factors like arriving at the emergency department by ambulance or not having a family physician were more closely linked to sepsis diagnoses. These results suggest that other elements, such as access to primary care, may be critical in determining sepsis risk, especially in the Hamilton area.

Researchers have raised concerns about the incomplete or inconsistent documentation of SDoH in patient health records, which may have impacted the study’s ability to understand their role in sepsis cases fully. Missing or inaccurately recorded data could explain why no significant link was found despite the well-documented effects of social conditions on general health outcomes. The study underscores the importance of improving data collection to inform future research and healthcare interventions better.

Fatima Sheikh emphasized the need for more comprehensive tracking of SDoH in patient records to help healthcare providers identify and support at-risk populations. This research shows the critical gaps in collecting and interpreting data on social factors. Sepsis Canada hopes the findings will prompt efforts to better integrate these elements into health systems, ensuring that vulnerable communities receive the care and early interventions they need.