ABSTRACT
The chapter examines the definitions and concepts underpinning 'race' and ethnicity with particular reference to their use in the study of the determinants of child health. The areliteratures are used to illustrate the potential for inappropriate attribution of independent effects of 'race' and ethnicity on child health. As part of the move away from racial classifications, the concept of ethnicity has been developed to examine the differences in health experience of different groups, particularly minority migrant groups within dominant cultures. In contrast to the original concepts of 'race', ethnicity is 'a social category referring to a shared heritage which includes a common geographical origin and history, distinctive language and a characteristic culture'. Differences in child health outcomes by 'race' and ethnic group are well documented. Biological explanations are most tenable in relation to the diseases related directly to variation in genetic pools.
