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Delaware's Division of Public Health (DPH) hopes the documentary film, "Unnatural Causes: Is Inequality Making Us Sick?" will stimulate community discussion about health and social disparities during a series of four public forums. The statewide forums, held April 5 - 7, are open to individuals desiring a greater understanding of the root causes of health disparities and what we as a community can do to address these issues. The forums are free.

Producer California Newsreel describes "Unnatural Causes" as a "medical detective story out to solve the mystery of what's stalking and killing us before our time, especially those of us who are less affluent and darker-skinned." The film probes the underlying causes of death in our communities. Moderated panel discussions follow the film.

"Since health disparities are an issue that affects everyone, we need sectors outside traditional public health practice to become involved," said Dr. Karyl Rattay, DPH director. "I invite the public to explore disparities and understand their root causes such as poverty, education and employment."

The series schedule is:

• Monday, April 5, 2010, 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
• 
  Film segment: "In Sickness and in Wealth"
  University of Delaware's Willard Hall auditorium, Room 007 West Main Street, Newark
  Co-sponsored by the School of Urban Affairs and Public Policy, the Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice, the Black American Studies program, the Urban Affairs Student Association, and the School of Nursing
  
  
• Tuesday, April 6, 2010, 10 a.m. - noon
• 
  Film segments: "When the Bough Breaks" and "Bad Sugar"
  Delaware State University Student Center Rt. 13, Dover
  Co-sponsored by Delaware State University.
  
  
• Tuesday, April 6, 2010, 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.
• Film segments: "When the Bough Breaks" and "Place Matters" Wilmington Hospital Conference Center
  501 W. 14th St., Wilmington
  
  
• Wednesday, April 7, 2010, 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
• 
  Film segments: "Becoming American" and "Collateral Damage"
  Sussex County Council chambers Sussex County Administrative Building - Sussex County Council chambers
  2 The Circle, Georgetown

For more information, call DPH's Office of Minority Health at (302) 744-4791. The forums are open to the public without registration or cost.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.