POH-705 Midterm Content Lectures 1-4

Health (WHO Definition)

A state of complete physical, mental and social well-being rather than a mere absence of disease or infirmity

Components of Health

Physical, Mental, Emotional, Social, Spiritual, Sexual

Public Conceptions Of Health

Not being ill

Fitness

Sense of well-being

Ability to carry out taskts

Medical Definition of Health

The normal physical state, the state of being whole and free from physical and mental disease or pain, so that the parts of the body carry on their proper function.

Indigenous Definition of Health

Living in total harmony with nature and having the ability to survive under exceedingly difficult circumstances.

Indigenous Health Emphasis

No one singular indigenous definition but emphasizes the interconnection of the health of us as humans and nature.

Indigenous Health Intersection

Intersection of spirit, mind, emotions and body and in the middle is self.

Health Education Evolution

Our knowledge of health and communication strategies have changed over time.

Choosing an Effective Medium

A communication channel chosen based on understanding the target audience, which may include specific patient populations or clinicians.

Health Education Growth in Canada

The development of health education in Canada began in the 17th and early 18th centuries, influenced by British and French colonization.

Communicable Diseases Introduced

Diseases such as Smallpox, measles, and tuberculosis were introduced during colonization, prompting public health reforms.

Sanitary Reforms

Measures taken to improve public health, including the establishment of boards of health and public health legislation like quarantine.

First Vaccine Development

The first vaccine for smallpox was developed in 1796, leading to mandatory vaccinations in Canada.

Public Health Evolution

Public health evolved post-Confederation (1867) with the development of municipal infrastructures to control disease spread.

Bacterial Revolution

A period marked by scientific discoveries regarding the transmission and prevention of infectious diseases.

Public and Personal Hygiene

The growing recognition of the importance of sanitation and hygiene in preventing disease.

Public Education Awareness

The understanding that educating the public is fundamental in combating infectious diseases.

World War I Health Concerns

Issues such as houseflies, public drinking cups, and STDs were highlighted during the war as they contributed to the spread of infectious diseases.

Spanish Influenza Impact

The 1918 Spanish influenza pandemic led to the creation of a Federal Department of Health in Canada.

Canada Public Health Association Act

Legislation enacted in 1960 to formalize the establishment of the Canada Public Health Association.

School of Hygiene Creation

An institution established to provide training for public health professionals.

TB Threat to Indigenous People

Growing recognition of the tuberculosis threat to Indigenous populations, coupled with federal inaction and indifference.

Knowledge is Power

A principle emphasizing the importance of knowledge in health education and public health initiatives.

Health Education

The process of assisting individuals, acting separately or collectively, to make informed decisions about matters affecting their personal health and that of others.

Health Education Attempts

Attempts to close the gap between what is known about optimum health practice and that which is actually practiced.

Health Education Theories

Attempt to understand why some parents refuse health interventions (vaccines for their children) and why some people think they are at risk of disease and others do not.

Factors affecting Health Education Messages

Technology, medical discoveries, scientific discoveries, employment patterns, societal values, political trends, economic trends, family pattern trends.

Health Education vs. Promotion

Health Promotion considers broader social context and often emphasizes social determiners of health; Health Education is a strategy used under the umbrella of health promotion.

Ottawa Charter for Health Promotion

presents strategies for global progress in health promotion.

Goal of Ottawa Charter

Health for all by 2000.

Core values of Health Promotion

Enablement, mediation, advocacy.

Five key action areas of Health Promotion

1. Building healthy public policy; 2. Creating supportive environments; 3. Strengthening community action; 4. Developing personal skills; 5. Re-orienting health services.

Health Education Attempts to Answer

Why do people behave as they do? How does what they do affect their health? What causes them to change their health-related behaviour? How can messages be targeted to particular groups? How can organizations change their focus and ways of working?

Health Education Change Goals

Create a change in awareness, knowledge, attitude, skills, behaviour, and quality of life.

ParticipACTION

A key organization promoting healthier lifestyles across Canada to ensure physical activity is a priority on the national agenda.

How does Canada rank among OECD member states for health indicators?

Canada ranks among the top and middle third performers.

What is the current life expectancy trend for Canadians?

Canadians are living longer with increased life expectancy.

What is Canada's rank in health among 30 countries according to OECD?

Canada is currently rated 6th.

What are some areas of concern regarding Canadian health?

Aging population, cardiovascular and chronic respiratory disease, cancer, and diabetes.

What is the 'healthy immigrant effect'?

Most recent immigrants are in better health than Canadian-born individuals, though their health declines over time.

People Living With Chronic Disease in Canada

More than 1 in 5 Canadian adults live with one of these chronic diseases

What factors contribute to the 'healthy immigrant effect'?

Immigrant selection, cultural factors, and resilience.

What is the role of immigrant selection in health?

It favours the immigration of healthy adults.

How do cultural factors influence the health of immigrants?

Habits from their country-of-origin are associated with better health.

What are the multiple factors that shape health status?

Physiological, lifestyle, environmental, and social factors.

What are examples of physiological factors affecting health?

Age, sex, and family history.

What lifestyle factors can influence health outcomes?

Smoking and physical activity.

What are social factors that can impact health?

Social support for coping with stress.

How do environmental factors affect health?

Access to healthy food and the neighbourhood built environment.

What are social determinants of health?

Non-medical factors that influence health outcomes, including conditions of daily life.

What does health equity mean?

The absence of unfair, avoidable differences among groups of people.

Why is health considered a fundamental human right?

Health equity is achieved when everyone can attain their full potential for health and well-being.

When is health equity Achieved?

Health equity is achieved when barriers that may impede an individual from reaching their full health potential are reduced or eliminated.

What are the key determinants of health?

Key determinants include income and social status, social support networks, education and literacy, employment and work conditions, social environment, and physical environments.

Why is income and social status considered a key determinant of health?

Income determines living conditions such as safe housing and the ability to buy sufficient good food, affecting overall health.

How does low income affect health outcomes in Canada?

Low-income Canadians are more likely to die earlier and suffer more illnesses than those with higher incomes, regardless of demographics.

What is the relationship between social support networks and health?

A strong social support network helps individuals solve problems, deal with diversity, and maintain control over life circumstances, acting as a buffer against health problems.

How does education and literacy impact health?

Higher education levels are associated with better access to healthy environments, lower smoking rates, and healthier eating habits.

What are the health implications of employment and work conditions?

Control over work circumstances and lower stress demands are linked to better health and longer life expectancy.

What is the effect of precarious work on health?

Precarious work is linked to decreased mental and physical health due to instability and lack of benefits.

How does the social environment influence health?

A supportive social environment reduces health risks and improves coping strategies, while negative social conditions can increase vulnerability to health issues.

What are the health risks associated with physical environments?

Contaminants in air, water, food, and soil can lead to various health issues, including cancer and respiratory illnesses.

What urban planning features contribute to a healthy city?

Healthy cities include pedestrian walkways, bicycle lanes, greenspaces, and effective public transit.

What is the significance of a sense of belonging in communities?

A strong sense of belonging is associated with lower health risks and better overall well-being.

How does social participation affect mortality rates?

Increased social contacts are linked to lower premature death rates for both men and women.

What role does health literacy play in health education and promotion?

Health literacy helps individuals navigate the healthcare system and understand the implications of unhealthy behaviors.

What are the consequences of low education levels on health?

Individuals with less education report lower health status and have higher rates of lost workdays.

How does unemployment affect health?

Unemployment is associated with reduced life expectancy and various health problems compared to employed individuals.

What factors contribute to environmental inequalities?

The distribution of pollution tends to be highest in less desirable residential areas, affecting vulnerable populations.

What is the significance of understanding unique access issues for vulnerable populations?

Identifying these issues is crucial for effective health education and promotion strategies.

Who are considered vulnerable populations in health outcomes?

Children, older adults, outdoor workers, low-income, and racialized communities.

What are some health outcomes impacted by social and physical environments?

Childhood asthma, safety, and cancer rates.

How can community organizations contribute to health education and promotion?

By recognizing their importance, improving the built environment, and advocating for green spaces.

What influences personal health practices and coping skills?

Social, economic, and environmental factors, including personal life skills, health-seeking behavior, stress, culture, social relationships, and resilience.

What role do effective coping skills play in health?

They enable self-reliance, problem-solving, and informed health choices.

What is the relationship between socioeconomic status and healthy behaviors?

There is a strong socioeconomic gradient evident for behaviors like smoking, diet, physical activity, and alcohol consumption.

What is the significance of early childhood development?

It has a powerful influence on brain development and school readiness.

What are the effects of positive stimulation and attachment in early life?

They improve learning, behavior, and health into adulthood.

What is the prevalence of developmental vulnerability among children in deprived neighborhoods?

It is twice as high compared to those in more affluent areas.

What are the primary functions of health services?

To maintain and promote health, prevent disease, and restore health for populations.

What challenges do low and moderate-income Canadians face regarding health services?

Limited or no access to eye care, mental health counseling, and prescription drugs.

How are gender and sex defined in health contexts?

Gender refers to socially-constructed roles and identities, while sex refers to biological attributes.

What health outcomes differ between genders?

Women generally live longer but may experience higher rates of depression and chronic conditions.

Why is it concerning that most health research has focused on male subjects?

Findings may not be applicable to females, particularly in areas like cardiac health.

What cultural factors can affect health risks?

Dominant cultural values can perpetuate marginalization, stigmatization, and lack of access to culturally appropriate care.

What is the definition of Health Promotion

the process of enabling people to increase control over, and to improve their health

What are the three key abilities an individual or group must have to achieve health?

Identify and realize aspirations, satisfy needs, and change or cope with environments.

What is the primary aim of health promotion?

To promote changes in lifestyle and environmental conditions to develop a culture of health.

What strategies are used in health promotion?

Health education, social marketing, mass communication, political action, community organization, and organizational development.

How is health promotion considered political?

It involves values and beliefs about personal responsibility, government roles, economic regulation, and societal connections.

What impact do values and beliefs have on health promotion?

They influence the policies developed, methods used to promote health, and the content of health programs.

What does evidence-based health promotion rely on?

Decisions based on the best available scientific evidence, high-quality data collection, and community engagement.

What are the key benefits of evidence-based health promotion?

Access to high-quality information, higher likelihood of successful programs, greater workforce productivity, and efficient resource use.

How does health promotion differ from traditional disease prevention?

Health promotion focuses on strengths and assets, participatory approaches, and social, economic, and environmental causes, while disease prevention targets individual behaviour and medical interventions.

What are the three types of risk factors relevant to health promotion?

Proximate, intermediate, and distal risk factors.

What is the focus of health promotion in relation to disease prevention?

Health promotion refocuses upstream, addressing broader determinants of health rather than just individual risk factors.

What is a characteristic of health promotion strategies?

They emphasize capacity building and participatory approaches.

What does health promotion aim to achieve beyond removing negatives?

It aims to gain positives such as increased access and better control over health decisions.

What is the role of community engagement in health promotion?

It involves engaging the community in decision-making processes.

What distinguishes health promotion from traditional disease prevention efforts?

Health promotion focuses on social, economic, and environmental causes of health and illness.