Structural Racism as a Fundamental Cause of Health Inequities

Abstract

This policy brief describes the role of racism in creating and perpetuating inequities in health among Black communities in the United States. It defines structural racism within a social determinants of health framework and highlights ways in which residential segregation is connected with poor living, working and social conditions that threaten good health. This brief concludes with recommendations for advancing health equity through more concerted attention to structural racism.