Health Disparities in the United States and China

In China, dramatic economic development in the last two decades has substantially improved living standards of Chinese people. However, economic transition may have a negative impact on health. Inequality in health outcomes, health disparities between urban and rural areas and socioeconomic status are critical health challenge in China. Significant inequalities of health status, life expectancy, infant mortality, prevalence of disease and mortality rate between urban and rural areas have become remarkable. Inequality in access to care and financial difficulty are the major contributing factors. At individual level, living and working conditions, and health behaviors are mediating factors.