Health Disparities

Health disparities refer to the differences in health outcomes and access to healthcare services that exist between different population groups. These disparities often arise from various factors, including socioeconomic status, geographic location, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, and other social determinants of health. Health disparities can manifest in a variety of ways, such as higher rates of certain diseases, lower quality of care, and varying levels of access to preventive services. The existence of health disparities indicates that certain groups may experience worse health outcomes or have less access to effective health interventions, often due to systemic inequities and injustices. Addressing health disparities is a key concern in public health, as it aims to promote health equity and ensure that all individuals have the opportunity to achieve optimal health, regardless of their background or circumstances.