HEALTH EQUITY: Social Conditions and Health

Doctors treat us when we are ill.  Though our health conditions could sometimes be linked to our family health history, that is not always the case. Research shows that social conditions—the jobs we do, the money we’re paid, the schools we attend, the neighborhoods we live in—are as important to our health as our family health history and our life style choices.

There is a strong connection between social conditions and health. Where people live and the opportunities they have access to can determine overall health. Our ZIP code can determine our health. Some Delaware residents are not living their healthiest life because of their social or economic status, or because of where they live. Residents in certain neighborhoods might not have easily accessible stores with fresh fruits and vegetables. Residents living in polluted areas are more likely to have chronic health problems like asthma. The disadvantages that these communities face are health inequities. Download a map (PDF, 2MB) that shows risk scores by ZIP code in Delaware.

When you are healthy, it is easier for you to learn, work and help others. The health of each of us affects the health of all of us. Use your advantage to help those in need of better health care and more, so that we can achieve health equity. Get involved and work for health equity in Delaware: visit the Health Equity Action Center.