Despite advances in medicine and health policies, racial and ethnic health disparities persist. Americans of color have higher mortality rates and an unequal burden of many health concerns compared to their white counterparts. Such health inequities compromise the cultural and economic fabric of our country. This course will discuss the complex relationship between socioeconomic status, race/ethnicity, and health. In addition, this course will examine the economic and societal threats that health disparities pose to our communities and nation, as well as policies and approaches to addressing such disparities.

This course provides an overview of the role played by health literacy in public health and safety and how social media and other emerging communication technologies can connect millions of voices to create a more adaptive and effective public health response.