Research
We generate rigorous, policy-relevant evidence on how digital environments influence young people’s health, wellbeing and inequalities. Digital platforms increasingly function as structural determinants of exposure, shaped by algorithmic systems, commercial incentives and platform design. Our research applies interdisciplinary methods and advanced causal inference approaches to understand these dynamics and inform public health policy.
Policy
We work with policymakers and regulators to ensure research evidence informs digital regulation, platform governance and public health strategy, while maintaining scientific independence.
Practice
We collaborate with educators, youth organisations and practitioners to support the responsible translation of research into real-world settings where young people live, learn and access support.
Learn more about the Hub’s work, projects and partnerships.
Our work combines rigorous population health science with strong engagement across policy, practice and young people’s lived experiences. The Hub’s research is grounded in causal epidemiological methods, ethical and transparent data science, and meaningful youth participation and co-production.
We collaborate with academic institutions, policymakers and third-sector organisations in the UK and internationally to ensure our research is both methodologically robust and relevant to real-world policy and practice.
The Digital Determinants of Health Hub is a research programme at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine funded by the Wellcome Trust and led by Dr Amrit Kaur Purba.
The Digital Determinants refer to the ways in which digital environments - including platforms, algorithms, data practices, and governance - shape health, wellbeing and equity across the life course.
Our mission
To understand how digital environments shape young people’s health and wellbeing, and to generate rigorous causal evidence that can inform policy, practice and public debate.
Our vision
A future in which digital platforms and policies affecting young people are shaped by robust evidence, ethical research practice and responsible public communication.
Our values
The Hub’s work is guided by a small set of core commitments:
- Methodological rigour and clarity.
- Independence and transparency.
- Meaningful youth involvement and co-production.
- Equity, inclusion and public benefit.
- A collaborative research culture that values care, integrity and critical thinking.
- Responsible communication and use of evidence.
Why digital determinants matter
Young people’s online experiences are shaped not only by individual behaviour, but by platform design, algorithmic systems and digital governance. These layered influences determine what content is amplified, how risks and opportunities are distributed, and who is most exposed or protected.
Digital platforms increasingly function as population-level determinants of health. Algorithmic systems, commercial incentives and governance decisions can amplify harm or support wellbeing, often in ways that intersect with existing social inequalities. Understanding these mechanisms is essential for effective prevention, protection and regulation.
More information about the Hub’s research, projects and partnerships can be found at www.digital-determinants-of-health.org.
Our work is grounded in:
- Causal epidemiological methods and population health science
- Ethical and transparent data science
- Meaningful youth participation and co-production
- Policy-relevant and responsibly communicated evidence
These principles guide how we design studies, interpret findings and engage with policy, practice and the public. The Hub combines longitudinal research, digital data science and interdisciplinary collaboration to examine how online environments shape health risks, opportunities and inequalities among young people.
Partners, collaborators and funders
The Hub works with a wide network of academic, policy and third-sector partners in the UK and internationally to support methodological innovation, real-world relevance and impact.
Read more information about partners and collaborators.