measurable differences in health status or in the distribution of health determinants between different population groups defined by social, demographic, economic, or geographic factors (such as ethnicity, gender, income, education, or social class).

When these differences are avoidable, unnecessary, or unfair, they are described as health inequities. Achieving health equity means creating conditions where all people have a fair and just opportunity to attain their highest possible level of health, minimizing or eliminating avoidable disparities.