We are pleased to present you with the Interagency Council on Black and Minority Health’s 2007 report. The report outlines key data findings of the council as well as three critical health focus areas to be addressed. These focus areas for improving minority health will act as a launching pad for action within Indiana on every level - residents, public health providers, community organizations, policymakers, and other stakeholders - to address health inequities and improve the health and environment of all Indiana residents. The three focus areas are: a. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in both Indiana and the U.S and is a major cause of disability. The broad term “heart disease” includes several more specific heart conditions including, but not limited to, coronary heart disease, heart attack, and heart failure. In the U.S., nearly 650,000 Americans die of heart disease annually (CDC). b. Obesity: Overweight and obesity result from an energy imbalance, which is caused by consuming too many calories and not getting enough physical activity. In addition to poor diet and physical inactivity, other factors that contribute to obesity include heredity, metabolism, behavior, environment, culture, and socioeconomic status. c. Addictions: Two common addictions include tobacco use and substance abuse. Tobacco use, particularly smoking, remains the number one cause of preventable disease and death in the U.S. For example, the risk of dying from lung cancer is more than 22 times higher among men who smoke cigarettes and about 12 times higher among women who smoke cigarettes compared with non-smokers. The intent of these recommendations and focus areas is to help increase access to healthcare services and reduce health status disparities among minority communities and individuals. We look forward to providing you with a report in November 2008 outlining our success in implementing this plan.