This conference, Moving Upstream: Advancing the science of structural determinants of health, comes at a critical moment as we seek to deepen our understanding of the structural determinants of health, identify key knowledge gaps, and chart a path forward for research, policy, and practice. The event will convene academics, research funders, policymakers, health system leaders, and trainees who are committed to advancing work in this area.

Since the World Health Organization’s 2008 Final report of the commission on social determinants of health, there has been significant growth and action focused on upstream interventions to reduce health inequities by intervening on social determinants. This conference provides a timely opportunity to reflect on progress over the past two decades and to advance thinking on how to move further upstream to address structural determinants – defined by Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) as “the larger societal, economic, ecological, and political contexts which shape these more proximal social determinants and, in turn, population health and well-being.”

The conference day will conclude with a reception marking the 10-year anniversary of the Upstream Lab – based at MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, St. Michael’s Hospital, Unity Health Toronto – and celebrating its contributions to advancing upstream approaches to health equity. Register today! 

Abstract submissions are now closed (as of Sept. 25, 2026). The abstracts are being reviewed by members of our Scientific Planning Committee. The Call for Abstracts poster is below for reference.