Oral

This session focuses on the complex relationships between sociodemographic factors, culture, and geographic location on health, as well as how those influences can be modified to reduce health disparities and improve the health of women. Topics discussed will include how adjusting the theoretical framework used to explore racial and ethnic health disparities in women may illuminate new and more effective public health perspectives; how geographic location influences health behaviors, access, and outcomes for women; and how culturally-appropriate efforts to increase breastfeeding may increase equity in infant mortality rates.

Session Objectives: 1. Demonstrate an understanding of the factors that significantly impact women’s health disparities. 2. List recommendations to reduce barriers to care for women veterans in the VA system. 3. Describe the role of breastfeeding in reducing racial and ethnic disparities in infant mortality.

CE Credits: Medical (CME), Health Education (CHES), Nursing (CNE), Public Health (CPH)