The wide and growing discrepancy in mortality rates between the minority populations of Blacks, Hispanics, Arab Americans, Asian/Pacific Islanders, and Native Americans and the White population of the State of Michigan make improving minority health status a matter of simple justice. Section I, "Introduction and Overview," comprises chapter 1, "Minorities in Michigan," which analyzes State demographics. Section II, "Major Causes of Excess Minority Deaths," analyzes specific health problems and comprises the following chapters: (2) "Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Disease"; (3) "Diabetes"; (4) "Cancer"; (5) "Chemical Dependency"; (6) "Violence and Injury"; and (7) "Low Birth Weight and Infant Mortality." Section III, "Special Problems," investigates health factors and subpopulations and comprises the following chapters: (8) "Nutrition and Hunger"; (9) "Environmental Hazards"; (10) "AIDS"; (11) "Tuberculosis"; (12) "Problems of Children"; and (13) "Problems of the Elderly." Section IV, "Systemic Issues," examines social and economic barriers and comprises chapter 14, "Access to Care," and chapter 15, "Jobs and Education." Section V, "Areas for Intervention," reviews areas in which programs can have a positive impact and comprises the following chapters: (16) "Smoking Prevention and Cessation"; (17) "Hypertension Prevention and Control"; (18) "Diabetes Education"; (19) "Reducing Violence and Injury"; (20) "Reducing Low Birth Weight and Infant Mortality"; (21) "Reducing Environmental Hazards"; and (22) "Improved Nutrition and Access to Food." Section VI,"Recommendations," proposes steps to close the gap in health status between minorities and Whites. Each chapter includes a list of references. Statistical data are included on nine graphs and 43 tables. A glossary is appended. (FMW)