HEALTH EQUITY
Addressing Louisville ’ s Health Inequities : The Role of Bluegrass Biodesign
by MUHAMMAD T . MUSTAFA , KHOI DO , NITA NAIR & MOHAMMAD Z . HAQ
including higher rates of environmental pollution , less access to fresh produce and limited access to high-quality health care facilities .
The health inequities visible in the city of Louisville are a reflection of the nuanced interactions between systemic disparities , past discriminatory practices and socioeconomic determinants . The city ’ s neighborhoods exhibit significant variations in access to health care , economic opportunities and education , which contribute to disparities in health outcomes . Many cities like Louisville are plagued with a history of redlining . Their effects are still felt to this day , with minorities and underprivileged communities having unequal access to financial and health services . Minority communities compose a large part of the population within lower-income regions , and these communities face obstacles
The practice of redlining has increased the prevalence of home and health inequity by perpetuating the cycle of poverty , and the limited access to means of healthy-living and health care has led to increased rates of acute exacerbations and chronic diseases . According to AARP research , Black individuals in Jefferson County typically live three years fewer than white individuals , who are consistently exceeding life expectancy . Diabetes , obesity and hypertension are among a few examples of health consequences faced by these communities . Employment and education prospects are also limited within these regions and the negative health outcomes may be a direct result . Surviving in difficult circumstances with limited resources is challenging for the residents in these communities , and the lack of support hinders their ability to break the cycle of poverty .
As per prior discourse , finding ways to effectively address health
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