Race and health in the United States

Research shows many health disparities among different racial and ethnic groups in the United States. Different outcomes in mental and physical health exist between all U.S. Census-recognized racial groups, but these differences stem from different historical and current factors, including genetics, socioeconomic factors, and racism. Research has demonstrated that numerous health care professionals show implicit bias in the way that they treat patients. Certain diseases have a higher prevalence among specific racial groups, and life expectancy also varies across groups.

Research has consistently shown significant health disparities among racial and ethnic groups in the U.S.; not rooted in genetics but in historical and from ongoing systematic inequities. Structural racism that has been embedded in employment, education, healthcare, and housing has led to unequal health outcomes, such as higher rates of chronic illnesses among Black, and Indigenous populations. An implied bias in healthcare also contributes to inequality in diagnosis, treatment, and overall care. Furthermore, the historical injustices including "medical exploration" during slavery and segregation have sown further mistrust and inequity that persists today. Efforts to reduce these differences include culturally competent care, diverse healthcare work-forces, and systematic policy corrections specifically targeted at addressing these disparities.