Final answer:
Healthcare disparities are influenced by a predilection of factors, prominently among them environmental disadvantages. These disparities are further heightened by intersecting forms of discrimination and systemic inequalities that affect marginalized groups.
Step-by-step explanation:
Healthcare disparities are related to a variety of disadvantages including social and economic factors, but also extend to environmental disadvantages, which can influence individuals' health outcomes. Environmental factors such as exposure to pollutants, access to clean water, and safe living conditions can create disparities in health. Population groups living in impoverished or polluted areas often have increased health risks and reduced access to quality healthcare, contributing to the likelihood of poorer health outcomes. These issues are exacerbated by intersecting axes of racism, sexism, ageism, and heterosexism, which further compound the effects of economic and environmental disparities on health.
For example, the fact that access to healthcare and health outcomes can be strongly influenced by geography—where you live can determine the level of healthcare quality available and the presence or absence of environmental risks. In reference to the healthcare inequalities faced by African Americans, systemic factors, including the history of medical mistrust, underrepresentation in medical research, and systemic inequality in economics and housing contribute to pronounced health disparities.