Health disparities define the difference in health outcomes between populations. That may sound complicated, but it’s actually simple: Does person A have the same chance of surviving or contracting an illness, compared to person B. Factors such as income, location, gender, sexual orientation and ethnicity all impact whether person A and Person B have the same chance of contracting or surviving an illness or condition.

The Office of Minority Health (OMH) hosts National Minority Health Month each April to educate the public about health disparities. This year’s theme is Health Equity Can’t Wait. Act Now in Your CommUNITY!

Some minorities experience a disproportionate burden of preventable disease, death, and disability compared with non-minorities. The average American can expect to live 77.9 years, while the average African American can only expect to live 73.6 years. Hispanics and African Americans also have higher rates of obesity than other populations.

You can help change health disparities in your community by supporting healthy places. Healthy places are safe places for physical activity and are where fresh fruits and vegetables can be found. Help increase access to healthy foods through community gardens, Farm to School programs, and healthier options at corner stores.

How you can help OMH recognize National Minority Health Month:

• Attending local events in your community
• Following OMH on Twitter
• Reading the OMH National Partnership for Action Blog

Do you see health disparities in your community? How are you helping to address them? Share what you are doing with us! We’d love to see photos, videos, and how you are improving your community.

Want to know more?

Office of Minority Health: http://minorityhealth.hhs.gov/
Office of Minority Health on Twitter: @MinorityHealth
National Minority Health Month: http://minorityhealth.hhs.gov/Actnow/