Biological, Sociocultural, and Behavioral Factors Contributing to Variations in Health Status

A comprehensive set of flashcards covering the critical biological, sociocultural, and behavioral factors influencing health and wellbeing.

Biological Factors

Factors relating to the body that impact health and wellbeing, such as genetics, hormones, body weight, blood pressure, glucose regulation, and blood cholesterol levels.

Genetics

The genetic material in cells that controls aspects like predisposition to disease, hormones, and sex characteristics.

Predisposition to Disease

The likelihood of developing a condition based on family history or genetic factors.

Body Weight

A factor that can influence other biological factors and lead to health issues such as cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.

Impaired Glucose Regulation

A condition where normal glucose regulation fails, often due to genetic predisposition, stress, lack of physical activity, or being overweight.

Hypertension

High blood pressure characterized by the increased pressure applied to blood vessel walls, often with no symptoms.

Socioeconomic Status (SES)

A person's position in society based on income, occupation, and education, which influences health status.

Income Influence on Health

Income affects access to resources necessary for maintaining health, such as housing, food, and healthcare.

Health Literacy

The capacity to obtain, process, and understand basic health information required for making health decisions.

Cultural Factors

Customs and values of a society that influence health, including gender stereotypes, food intake, and beliefs.

Food Security

The quality, availability, and affordability of food, which directly impacts dietary choices and health.

Behavioural Factors

Actions or patterns of living that impact health, such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and physical activity.

Smoking Burden of Disease

Smoking significantly contributes to diseases like lung cancer, cardiovascular disease, and respiratory conditions.

Alcohol Misuse

Excessive drinking that leads to health issues such as obesity, liver disease, relationship problems, and increased risk of injuries.

Under Consumption of Fibre

Not consuming enough dietary fibre, linked to risks for overweight/obesity and colorectal cancer.

Over Consumption of Fat

Exceeding the recommended intake of fats, leading to increased body weight and higher risk for cardiovascular diseases.