Assessment of Disparities as a Sustainable Tool for the Improvement of Public Health

Dear Colleagues, 

The emergence of the novel SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic in 2019 has laid bare the enormous global disparities/inequalities that exist in communities and this problem has impacted millions and strained global health-care systems in an unparalleled manner. This is contrary to and falls short of Goal #10 of the Sustainable Development Goals calls to “Reduce inequality within and among countries” (https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/inequality/). Inequalities have unfairly disadvantaged communities and threatened public health. Despite regulations to curb air pollution, millions of minorities worldwide live in communities with unhealthy air pollution levels. This situation is worse with the recent COVID-19 pandemic and aggravated COVID-19 mortality. Among others, promoting good air and water quality in poor, less educated, and minority communities and the single act of regulating and enforcing policies to limit inequalities (regardless of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, religion, economic status, etc.) will play a crucial role in reducing the inequity gaps to achieve sustainable development and improve public health. 

This special issue seeks to explore, identify, and address the deepened inequalities, among vulnerable and disadvantaged populations and communities within and among countries and how these inequalities have led to disproportionation and decline in public health. This special issue fosters equitable access to economic, environmental, and social protection for sustainable development and global enhancement of public health.

Dr. Nesta Bortey-Sam
Prof. Berthony Deslouches
Guest Editors

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• inequality
• sustainability
• COVID
• development
• promote
• public health