According to the AAP policy statement, what should be addressed to improve child and adolescent health?

The correct choice emphasizes the role of racism as a factor that must be addressed to improve child and adolescent health. This focus is based on a growing recognition within the medical community, including policy statements from reputable organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), that racism has far-reaching effects on health outcomes. Research has demonstrated that systemic racism can contribute to disparities in access to care, quality of treatments, and overall health and wellbeing.

Addressing racism is essential because it influences social determinants of health, including economic stability, education access, and healthcare availability. By prioritizing the impact of racism, stakeholders can develop more effective interventions and policies aimed at dismantling barriers to health equity and improving the overall health of children and adolescents.

The emphasis on addressing racism is not to dismiss other significant factors but rather to highlight its pervasive influence on health disparities. Socioeconomic status, educational background, and parenting styles are also important to consider, but the particular focus on racism in this context underscores its critical role as a social determinant of health that requires targeted action.