Health Psychology Chapter 4: Prevention

Unintentional injuries

A major cause of preventable death; primary cause of death for children under 5 years.

Social engineering

A strategy used to decrease accidents and injuries.

Primary injuries in 12-19 years

Common injuries in this age group are caused by sports and exercise.

Primary injuries in 65+ years

Household chores and walking are major causes of injury in this age group.

Social engineering intervention for automobile accidents

Seat belt enforcement signs help reduce traffic-related injuries.

Illusory superiority / better-than-average effect

The phenomenon where people overestimate their abilities in groups and think they are the exception.

Cancer statistics

1 in 4 Canadians will die from cancer.

Breast cancer screening recommendations

Mammograms are more effective than breast self-examination (BSE).

Social determinants of breast screening

Middle class individuals have the best habits; low and high SES groups face difficulties.

Emotional barriers to screening

Fear of radiation, embarrassment, anticipated pain, anxiety, and fear of cancer affect screening participation.

Increasing breast cancer screening uptake

Social support, such as bringing a friend, can encourage screening.

“Breast Buddies” program

An initiative that helps indigenous people get tested for breast cancer.

Prostate cancer

The most common cancer among cis-men, especially prevalent after age 50.

Colorectal cancer

The 4th most common cancer, typically seen in individuals over 50.

Testicular cancer

The most common cancer in cis-men aged 15-35.

Colorectal cancer screening barriers

Most people believe the screening is unnecessary.

Skin cancer

The most prevalent type of cancer.

“Mind the gap” campaign

A campaign aimed at collecting information on skin-related illnesses for people of color.

Aerobic exercise

Sustained exercise that stimulates/strengthens the heart and lungs; must be high intensity and long duration.

Aerobic exercise recommendations

At least 150 minutes of activities such as jogging, biking, and swimming weekly.

Benefits of exercise

Reduces the risk of chronic disease and some cancers, improves cardiovascular fitness, and enhances longevity.

Positive factors of exercise

Influenced by individual characteristics, setting characteristics, and specific strategies.

Individual characteristics affecting exercise

Includes positive attitude, self-efficacy, and social support.

Setting characteristics for exercise

Accessibility to resources and convenience in the environment support exercise engagement.

Exercise strategies

Theories such as TPB can help explain participation in exercise, and cognitive-behavioral strategies promote adherence.

Importance of diet

Diet significantly contributes to various diseases; improving diet can enhance health.

Problems with diet change

Changing eating habits can be difficult due to restrictiveness, boring choices, and costs.

Stress and eating behavior

Stress influences eating patterns; people may resort to high-calorie, high-fat foods.

Food Habit Interventions

Cognitive-behavioral strategies including education and self-monitoring can help change eating habits.

Leptin

A hormone that signals whether the body has enough energy stores.

Ghrelin

A hormone that contributes to regaining lost weight after dieting.

Ventromedial hypothalamus

A brain region crucial for normal eating habits.

Health risks of obesity

Abdominal fat significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Weight loss recommendations

Aim to lose no more than 2 pounds per week to avoid harmful rebound effects.

Holistic health importance

Self-talk, social support, and a holistic approach are important for weight loss success.