Disparities

Disparities refer to differences in outcomes, opportunities, or access to services that occur between defined groups within a population. They are observed across domains such as health, income, education, housing, and geography, and they highlight gaps in key measures between groups that share certain characteristics.

Disparities are typically illustrated by differences between groups defined by race or ethnicity, gender, socioeconomic status, disability, or location. They can be seen in life expectancy, disease burden, educational attainment, wages, wealth, housing quality, and access to transportation or digital infrastructure.

Causes of disparities are often rooted in structural factors. These include discrimination, unequal access to resources and opportunities, biased policies, historic segregation, and the geographic distribution of institutions and services. Social determinants such as education, employment, housing, and environment contribute to the persistence of disparities over time.

Measurement and interpretation involve comparing outcomes across groups using absolute gaps or relative differences. Analysts may standardize rates for age or other factors and employ indices such as the Gini coefficient, Theil index, or concentration index to quantify inequality and track changes.

Policy and practice aim to reduce unjust disparities while recognizing legitimate variations. Strategies include equity-focused reforms, targeted programs to expand access for disadvantaged groups, universal policies that remove barriers, and ongoing data collection and monitoring to assess progress and adjust approaches. Disparities are a common focus of public policy, social science research, and health and social care planning.