New directions for communities: How they can boost neighborhood health

In America today, where you live can truly have a significant impact on how you live. According to the CDC, your zip code is a greater indicator of your overall health and life expectancy than your genetic code. The social factors that your doctor can’t see during a routine check-up – like the distance from your home to the closest grocery store, the availability of green spaces, and your ability to walk safely outside – are all driving your health and wellness.

On Tuesday, May 9, Economic Studies at Brookings hosted an event focusing on the important role of the public, private, and government sectors when it comes to improving the health of local communities. We heard from national and local experts in a dialogue on the topic.

.  For more on this topic see: https://www.brookings.edu/series/building-healthy-neighborhoods/