Homelessness as a determinant of health.

The homeless population in the United States is variously estimated at between 350,000 and 2.5 million. Families and children are among the fastest-growing segments of this population. A combination of social and economic changes occurring nationally have contributed to this phenomenon. Conditions associated with homelessness have a profound effect on the individual's ability to maintain health, to have access to treatment, and to recuperate. Several health problems are specific to the homeless, and have implications for public health practitioners.