The Role of Art in Addressing Health Inequities

Kamanzi Ntakirutimana G.

School of Natural and Applied Sciences Kampala International University Uganda

ABSTRACT

This paper examines the intersection of art and public health, focusing on the role of art in addressing health inequities driven by social determinants of health. Health disparities—disproportionate health outcomes influenced by socioeconomic, racial, geographic, and other systemic factors—are pervasive in many communities. Art, as both a therapeutic tool and a platform for social critique, holds unique potential to bridge these gaps. Through case studies of art initiatives, this paper investigates how collaborative art projects can foster community engagement, raise awareness, and influence policy changes to promote health equity. The paper also examines the challenges faced by art-health initiatives, offering practical strategies to overcome them. Ultimately, the integration of art into health interventions can foster emotional connections and inspire collective action toward more equitable health outcomes.

Keywords: Health inequities, social determinants of health, art as social critique, public health, community.

CITE AS: Kamanzi Ntakirutimana G. (2024). The Role of Art in Addressing Health Inequities. RESEARCH INVENTION JOURNAL OF RESEARCH IN EDUCATION 4(2):39-42. https://doi.org/10.59298/RIJRE/2024/423942