For example, residents of substandard housing may be at increased risk for fire, electrical injuries, lead poisoning, falls, rat bites, and other illnesses and injuries. Even the size of a community is a factor. When certain groups and communities do not have access to quality health care, the long-term cost to individuals, the economy, indeed society as a whole, can be substantial. The future health of America as a whole will be influenced substantially by our success in improving the health of all populations. Even when some types of health disparities are eliminated, other factors may come into play.
Health disparities are extremely complex.
For example, the long-standing gaps between life expectancy of men and women and between whites and African Americans have narrowed. Yet, major differences persist depending on income and education. Healthy People 2010 challenges everyone to take steps to ensure that good health, as well as long life, is enjoyed by all. Under the Healthy People umbrella, specific actions are under way. A Field Guide to Health Planning , developed by the Public Health Foundation .