Health Disparities Defined In Healthy People 2020

Health Disparities Defined In Healthy People 2020 A Particular Type O

Health disparities are defined by Healthy People 2020 as particular types of health differences that are closely linked with social, economic, and environmental disadvantages. These disparities negatively impact groups of people who have faced greater obstacles to health due to characteristics such as race or ethnicity, religion, socioeconomic status, gender, age, mental health, cognitive, sensory, or physical disabilities, sexual orientation or gender identity, geographic location, or other factors associated with discrimination or exclusion. This paper will explore a specific health disparity experienced by a population group in the United States, supported by relevant data, and will analyze the disparity through the lens of a social determinants of health framework described in Chapter 4, specifically utilizing Figure 4.2 to illustrate how social factors influence health outcomes.

Paper For Above instruction

The health disparity I will examine is the disproportionately high prevalence of Type 2 diabetes among Native American populations in the United States. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), American Indians and Alaska Natives are twice as likely to develop diabetes compared to non-Hispanic whites, with an age-adjusted prevalence rate of approximately 15.1% in 2020 (CDC, 2022). This disparity signifies a significant health inequity rooted in complex social, economic, and environmental factors that influence health outcomes over generations.

Applying a social determinants of health framework, particularly as depicted in Figure 4.2, provides a comprehensive view of how various social factors contribute to this disparity. The framework emphasizes the influence of socioeconomic status, education, access to healthcare, physical environment, and social context in shaping health. These determinants serve as the foundation for understanding why Native Americans face higher risks of diabetes.

Socioeconomic status plays a central role, given that many Native American communities experience poverty at higher rates than national averages (U.S. Census Bureau, 2021). Limited economic resources restrict access to healthy foods, safe recreational spaces, and quality healthcare services necessary for prevention and management of diabetes. For instance, food deserts—areas lacking affordable healthy food options—are prevalent in tribal lands, contributing to diets high in processed and sugary foods, which are risk factors for diabetes (Hastings et al., 2018). Economic hardship also limits opportunities for regular medical checkups, early diagnosis, and effective disease management.

Educational disparities further compound the problem. Lower levels of health literacy among some Native American populations hinder understanding of diabetes prevention strategies, such as proper nutrition and physical activity. This deficiency reduces engagement in health-promoting behaviors and adherence to treatment regimens. Studies indicate that improving health education in these communities can significantly impact diabetes outcomes (Espey et al., 2014).

Access to health care is another critical social determinant. Many Native American reservations are geographically isolated, making it challenging to access comprehensive healthcare services. Although the Indian Health Service (IHS) provides health care to Native Americans, it often faces funding and resource constraints, resulting in gaps in care quality and availability (Roubideaux, 2012). Limited access delays diagnosis and hampers ongoing management of diabetes, leading to higher rates of complications such as amputations and kidney failure.

The physical environment also influences this disparity. Tribal lands often lack infrastructure to support active lifestyles—such as parks and walking trails—and may be characterized by inadequate housing and sanitation conditions. These environmental factors decrease opportunities for physical activity, which is vital for diabetes prevention and control (Kurtz et al., 2016). Moreover, exposure to environmental toxins due to proximity to industrial sites can exacerbate health issues, including metabolic disorders.

Social and cultural factors, including historical trauma, discrimination, and marginalization, contribute to chronic stress and health inequities. Social support networks within Native communities can serve as protective factors; however, the persistent legacy of colonization and forced displacement often undermines community resilience, influencing mental health and health behaviors (Whitbeck et al., 2014). These psychosocial stressors have been linked to increased cortisol levels and insulin resistance, further heightening diabetes risk.

Using the social determinants framework in conjunction with Figure 4.2, it becomes evident that health disparities such as the elevated rates of Type 2 diabetes among Native Americans are rooted in systemic social inequities. The diagram illustrates how economic, social, physical, and environmental factors are interconnected, collectively impacting individual health behaviors and biological outcomes.

Addressing this disparity requires multifaceted strategies that target social determinants. Policy interventions to improve economic conditions, such as community-based economic development, can alleviate poverty and enhance access to healthy foods and healthcare. Culturally tailored health education programs are essential to improve health literacy and promote preventive behaviors. Expanding healthcare infrastructure and telehealth services can mitigate geographic barriers. Additionally, efforts to improve the physical environment and address environmental hazards are vital for comprehensive health promotion.

In conclusion, the higher prevalence of Type 2 diabetes among Native American populations exemplifies a health disparity firmly rooted in social determinants of health. Applying the framework depicted in Figure 4.2 clarifies how systemic social, economic, and environmental factors interrelate to influence health outcomes. To effectively reduce these disparities, it is imperative to implement holistic strategies that address the underlying social inequities, thereby promoting health equity and improving quality of life for Native communities.

References

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2022). National Diabetes Statistics Report, 2022. CDC.
• Espey, D. K., et al. (2014). Leading causes of death and all-cause mortality in American Indian and Alaska Native populations, 1990–2001. Journal of Health Care for the Poor and Underserved, 25(2), 465–488.
• Hastings, D. M., et al. (2018). Food insecurity among American Indians and Alaska Natives: Impacts and implications. Journal of Hunger & Environmental Nutrition, 13(4), 643–657.
• Kurtz, S., et al. (2016). Physical environment and health: The role of social determinants. Public Health Reports, 131(4), 526–533.
• Roubideaux, Y. (2012). Perspectives on Native American health. American Journal of Public Health, 102(Suppl 2), S168–S175.
• Whitbeck, L. B., et al. (2014). Historical trauma, episodes of adversity, and mental health among American Indians. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 27(3), 395–402.
• U.S. Census Bureau. (2021). American Indian and Alaska Native Tribes: 2021 American Community Survey. U.S. Census Bureau.