This article discusses health disparities, the definition, and the impacts they can have on affected people.
It explains the causes and how that connects to public health in the community.
Illustration by Dennis Madamba for Verywell Health
What Is the Definition of Health Disparities?
Illustration by Dennis Madamba for Verywell Health
They contribute to health consequences because of disease, injury and violence, and the lack of prevention opportunities.
These factors include:
Historically, these characteristics have been linked to discrimination or exclusion.
These disparities can often persist for generations.
Examples of Health Disparities
The root causes of health disparities are complex.
Some examples include:
Maternal health is an example of health disparities with generational impact.
Unemployed, low-income individuals are less likely to have access to health insurance.
Environmental Factors
Health outcomes can be shaped by lifestyle choices including diet and exercise.
Some of those choices are shaped by the environment.
Strategies for Reducing Health Disparities
Closing the gap in health outcomes is no easy task.
Causes are often multi-layered.
Solutions would need to address not only the root cause of a given disparity but also the original context.
These include economic stability, education, and other factors that contribute to health disparities.
These causes of health disparity can be changed with intentional polices and approaches to establish health equity.
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