In Communities Where Civic Health Is Poor, Lives Are Shorter

The University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute has compiled evidence-based strategies for fostering civic and community health, as civic health and population health go hand in hand. Emerging research shows that the stresses of discrimination and poverty are direct causes of illness. Studies of this phenomenon are demonstrating that diet and lifestyle aren’t enough to explain disease rates and maternal health problems in minority communities. This work adds a new dimension to the long-established principle that social well-being is an essential component of health. Many communities are reaffirming commitments to equity and inclusion. The public health community is recognizing how all this relates to health. Read more from Governing here.