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Health Disparities and Discrimination: Three Perspectives
Khadidiatou Ndiaye1, Janice R Krieger, Jennifer R Warren
1The Pennsylvania State University, Communication Arts and Sciences, 234 Sparks Building University, PA 16802, 814-865-0945.
Journal of Health Disparities Research and Practice
|September 28, 2011
Summary
This study examines how physical and digital spaces contribute to health disparities. While cyberspace offers potential, geographical and international divides persist, necessitating culturally grounded solutions.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Health Disparities Research
- Sociology of Health
Background:
- Health discrimination and disparities are perpetuated by various factors.
- The concept of "space" is increasingly recognized as a critical determinant of health inequities.
- Existing research often focuses on physical space, with less attention to the role of cyberspace.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present three distinct perspectives on how "space" (physical and digital) contributes to health discrimination and disparities.
- To analyze the role of international and rural geography in perpetuating health inequities.
- To propose solutions for reducing health disparities grounded in The Principle of Cultural Grounding.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual analysis of "space" in relation to health disparities.
- Examination of discrimination within and among nations.
- Juxtaposition of geographical space with cyberspace and its impact on health information access.
Main Results:
- Physical space, both within and between nations, is a significant site for health discrimination.
- Cyberspace, while promising, has not eliminated health disparities.
- Disparities persist due to international and rural geographical factors, limiting equal access to health information.
Conclusions:
- Health disparities are complex and influenced by multiple dimensions of space.
- The internet's potential to equalize health information access is limited by geographical and international divides.
- The Principle of Cultural Grounding offers a framework for developing effective interventions to reduce health disparities.
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