The Shocking Reality of Health Inequity Examples in America
Healthcare, one of the most fundamental necessities in human life, is supposed to be easily accessible to all. However, the reality in America is shockingly different. Health inequity is a major issue that has plagued the United States for decades now.
What Is Health Inequity?
Health inequity refers to differences in health between populations that stem from social, economic, and environmental factors. In other words, people who belong to certain groups tend to be sicker and have less access to healthcare than others who belong to different groups.
The Scope of Health Inequity in America
The scope of health inequity in America is vast. Studies reveal that people of color are more likely to face health disparities than white Americans. According to the American Public Health Association, black Americans die at a rate that is 50% higher than whites. Native Americans suffer from high rates of diabetes and infant mortality. Similarly, Hispanic Americans suffer from higher rates of obesity and heart disease.
Why Health Inequity Exists
One of the main reasons for health inequity in America is income disparity. People who earn less money tend to have less access to healthcare and are more likely to suffer from preventable diseases. Another reason for health inequity is lack of education. People who are less educated are more likely to make poor health decisions and have less knowledge about preventive measures.
Examples of Health Inequity in America
Examples of health inequity are numerous in America. African Americans are more likely to develop diabetes and to have complications related to the disease. They also have higher rates of hypertension and are more likely to die from heart disease. Native Americans have the worst cancer survival rates of any ethnic group in America. They constantly battle with high rates of alcoholism, cigarette smoking, depression, suicide, and physical assault. And lastly, Hispanics have higher rates of obesity, which leads to higher rates of heart disease and other obesity-related illnesses.
The Impact of Health Inequity
The impact of health inequity is far-reaching. Not only does it result in preventable deaths and suffering, but it also increases healthcare costs for everyone. When people who lack access to healthcare finally seek medical attention, their illnesses are usually much more severe and require more expensive treatments.
Conclusion
Unfortunately, health inequity in America is a deeply entrenched problem that won’t be solved overnight. However, it’s vital that we continue to raise awareness of the issue and advocate for policy changes that aim to address the root causes of the problem. Every American deserves access to quality healthcare, regardless of their race, ethnicity, income bracket, or education level. We must all work together to make this a reality.
