Racial inequalities in health: a challenge to the British National Health Service.

The existence of racial inequalities in health in the United Kingdom is examined using both indirect and direct data. The evidence strongly supports the view that the health experience of black and other ethnic minority groups is worse than that of the indigenous white population. Ways of improving this situation are outlined; they indicate the need for a coordinated Health service response incorporating planning, training, and equal opportunities in both service provision and employment practices.