Definitions and sample sizes of all subgroups can be located in the Methodology section.
Healthopens in new window: A state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not just the absence of sickness or frailty.
Health Disparitiesopens in new window: Population group differences in health that are closely linked with social and economic disadvantages. Health disparities negatively affect groups of people who have systematically experienced greater social or economic life obstacles. These obstacles stem from characteristics historically linked to discrimination or exclusion such as race or ethnicity, religion, socioeconomic status, gender, mental health, sexual orientation or geographic location. Other characteristics include cognitive, sensory or physical disability.
Health Inequalityopens in new window: Differences, variations and disparities in the health achievements of individuals and groups of people.
Health Inequityopens in new window: A difference or disparity in health outcomes among population groups that is systematic, avoidable and unjust.
Life Expectancyopens in new window: The average number of years a population of a certain age would be expected to live, given a set of age-specific death rates in a given year. Life expectancy is a summary mortality measure often used to describe the overall health status of a population. Healthy People 2020 monitors two life expectancy measures:
- Life expectancy at birth.
- Life expectancy at age 65.
Social Determinants of Healthopens in new window: The complex, integrated and overlapping social structures and economic systems that are responsible for health inequities. These social structures and economic systems include social environment, physical environment, health services, and structural and societal factors. Social determinants of health are shaped by the distribution of money, power and resources throughout local communities, nations and the world.