According to Healthy People 20/20 (a science-based, 10-year national objective for improving the health of all Americans), if a health outcome is seen to a greater or lesser extent between populations, there is a disparity. Healthy People 2020 defines a health disparity as “a particular type of health difference that is closely linked with social, economic, and/or environmental disadvantage.” Health disparities adversely affect groups identified as having systematically experienced greater obstacles to their ability to achieve good health. These disparities include:
- racial or ethnic group
- religion
- socioeconomic status
- gender
- age
- mental health
- physical disability
- sexual orientation
- gender identity
- geographic location
This 12th anniversary edition provides insight into areas of our daily lives that support or prevent us from living our healthiest.
Be sure to read my additional commentary on page 17. I share more about the passion that drives our team to provide you with vital health information and resources.
Thank you for joining us on the journey. You are one of thousands of loyal readers and supporters that make producing Our Health MattersTM worthwhile.