SFH- Module 5

Module Overview

• Title: Preventing and Fighting Against Diseases for Good Health

• Presented by: Dr. Shwetha H. J.

• Department: Biotechnology, B.M.S. College of Engineering

• Focus: Scientific Foundations of Health

Understanding Infections

Definition of Infection

• Infection occurs when pathogens (bacteria, viruses, fungi) enter, attach, and multiply in the body, evading defenses.

Process and Natural Defenses

• Skin: Blocks germs but vulnerable if cut.

• Coughing: Expels germs but may be ineffective for weak individuals.

• Resident Flora: Harmless bacteria that protect against harmful germs.

• Inflammatory Response: Activated by the immune system to fight infections.

• Antibodies: Produced by the immune system to target microbes.

Factors Influencing Infection

• Overwhelming virulence of pathogens can cause infections, especially if the immune system is weakened.

Types of Infections

Localized vs Systemic Infections

• Localized: Limited to one part (e.g., cut infection).

• Systemic: Spread throughout the body (e.g., flu, AIDS).

Causes and Effects of Infections

• Pathogens: Viruses, bacteria, fungi, parasites can lead to illness through toxins or cell takeover.

• Immune Response: Fever, pain, and fatigue can accompany infections.

• Latent Infections: Organisms remain inactive until the immune system is weakened.

Spread of Infections

Routes of Transmission

• Spread through air, food, water, bodily fluids, and vector organisms (e.g., insects).

• Congenital infections can occur from mother to fetus.

Symptoms and Treatment of Infections

Symptoms

• Bacterial: Fever, inflammation, pus.

• Viral: Variety of symptoms, less inflammation.

Treatment Options

• Medications: Antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, surgical intervention for drainage.

Infection Prevention

Strategies

• Wound Care: Clean and properly cover wounds.

• Immunization: Vaccines for numerous diseases (e.g., influenza, chickenpox).

• Hygiene Practices: Clean water, sanitation, handwashing, and food safety.

Reducing Risk of Transmitted Infections

• Methods: Vaccination, safe sexual practices, limit substance abuse.

Socio-Economic Impact of Disease

Key Factors

• Economic Status: Influences health resource access.

• Occupational Status: Affects exposure to health risks.

• Educational Attainment: Correlates with health literacy and access to resources.

• Poverty: Insufficient resources affect health outcomes.

Social Impacts on Health

Environmental and Economic Relationships

• Pandemic Effects: Job loss during crises, ongoing employment issues, high levels of food insecurity.

Health Promotion Policies

Recommended Actions

• Foster inclusive development, improve social innovation, and provide health data without burdening stakeholders.

Managing Chronic Conditions

Risk Reduction Strategies

• Lifestyle Choices: Quitting smoking, physical activity, proper nutrition, stress management, and maintaining overall good health metrics.

Chronic Diseases Overview

• Continuous medical management is essential for conditions like diabetes and heart diseases.

Improving Quality of Life for Chronic Illnesses

• WHO Definition: Quality of life encompasses subjective factors influencing satisfaction in life.

• Patients often compare their health perceptions with those of better-off peers.

Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL)

Evaluation Importance

• HRQoL measures the impact of diseases and medical interventions, highlighting areas for patient-centered care.

Youth Health Challenges

Key Issues

• Growing youth population facing mental health challenges; protective factors are essential.

Measuring Health and Wealth

• Wealth vs. Income: Wealth is a cumulative reflection of resources affecting long-term health, especially among the elderly.