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Health Disparities

Differences in health outcomes between population groups that are systematic, avoidable, and unjust.

Also: Health Inequities

Often tied to race, ethnicity, income, education, geography, sexual orientation, gender identity, and disability. Examples in nutrition include disproportionate rates of food insecurity, diabetes, and pediatric obesity in marginalized communities. Reducing disparities requires both clinical and structural interventions and is an explicit objective of Healthy People.

How one textbook covers it

  • Krause and Mahan's Food and the Nutrition Care Process, 16th ed. — Chapter 8

    Often tied to race, ethnicity, income, education, geography, sexual orientation, gender identity, and disability. Examples in nutrition include disproportionate rates of food insecurity, diabetes, and pediatric obesity in marginalized communities. Reducing disparities requires both clinical and structural interventions and is an explicit objective of Healthy People.

Related terms

Cultural Competency, Food Insecurity, Social Determinants of Health