Medical Sociology

Abstract Medical sociology is a subdiscipline of sociology that studies the social causes and consequences of health and illness. It is a relatively new sociological specialty. What makes medical sociology important is the significant role social factors play in determining the health of individuals, groups, and the larger society. Social conditions and situations not only cause illness, but they also help prevent it. This entry examines the development of medical sociology from its inception until the present, including its major works and theoretical developments.