The evidence documenting that race is primarily a social rather than a biological category provides insight into the types of interventions that are needed to improve the health of disadvantaged racial populations. Effective interventions will be those that are targeted not at internal biological processes – but those that seek to improve the quality of life in the places where Americans spend most of their time – their homes, schools, workplaces, neighborhoods and places of worship (Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Commission, 2009). For example, incentive programs for Famer's Markets and full-service grocery stores, along with more stringent regulations on fast food and liquor stores, could increase availability of nutritious, affordable foods in underserved areas. Other potential interventions include restructured land-use and zoning policies that reduce the concentration of environmental risks (e.g., proximity bus depots to schools or daycares); public transportation options that encourage physical activity and minimize pollution risks; the creation of public green spaces that promote walkability, exercise, and community cohesion; and educational initiatives aimed at equalizing access to K-12 education and higher education, improving teacher quality, lifting graduation rates, and reducing the achievement gap.
