Public Health Concepts: Putting the 'Public' into Health

These flashcards cover key concepts and determinants of health that are fundamental to understanding public health initiatives and their impact.

What are the leading causes of death in the US?

Majority are chronic diseases and accidents.

What is the trend in disease outbreaks over time?

Disease outbreaks would still occur but are usually not widespread, leading to a drop in overall death rates.

What concept explains the transition from pestilence to degenerative diseases?

Epidemiologic Transition.

What are the four stages of the Epidemiologic Transition?

Pestilence and Famine, Receding Pandemics, Degenerative and Man-Made Diseases, Delayed Degenerative Diseases and Emerging Infections.

What do 'vital rates' refer to in health statistics?

Crude birth and death rates.

What are biological determinants of health?

Age, sex, genetics, and biochemistry.

What is one of the leading causes of death for young adults?

Unintentional injuries.

What are the main categories of determinants of health?

Biological, Environmental, Socioeconomic, and Behavioral.

Which risk behaviors contribute significantly to adolescent deaths?

Risky behaviors such as road injury and self-harm.

What is the reported percentage of current smokers in the US as of 2015?

15.1%.

What is the leading cause of preventable disease and death in the US?

Cigarette smoking.

What trend has been observed in youth tobacco use from 2011 to 2015?

Cigarette smoking declined while electronic cigarette use increased.

What percentage of people aged 18 and older reported drinking alcohol at some point in their lifetime?

84.9%.

What is the prevalence of binge drinking among young adults aged 18-25?

Approximately 30.5% among males.

What are common dietary behaviors affecting health?

High fast food consumption and low nutritional intake.

What percentage of youth aged 2-19 eat fast food on a given day?

More than 36%.

Which factors constitute socioeconomic determinants of health?

Education, income and wealth, employment, housing, and neighborhood.

How does educational attainment influence health status?

Higher education levels correlate with better health status.

What environmental factors affect health outcomes?

Air quality, water quality, toxic substances, and housing conditions.

What is a food desert?

An area with limited access to affordable and nutritious food.

How do walkable communities influence health?

Residents are more likely to meet physical activity guidelines.

What is the purpose of recreational facilities in communities?

They provide spaces for physical activity, especially for youth.

What role do communities play in promoting physical activity?

They create supportive environments, such as walkable neighborhoods.

Which determinant of health shows the highest impact based on potentially preventable deaths?

Behavioral determinants.

What environmental changes have impacted population health?

Climate change, air pollution, and access to clean water.

What is the importance of incorporating multiple health determinants in public health strategies?

To address health disparities effectively and comprehensively.