Health and Disease: Concepts and Etiology

Health-Disease Process Concepts and Definition

• Health is defined as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
• It represents a dynamic state that is constantly changing and evolving.
• Disease is a state of alteration of the state of health, characterized by the presence of symptoms, signs, and physiological alterations.
• It can be acute (short duration) or chronic (long duration).
• The health-disease process is a dynamic and complex process that involves biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors that interact to influence an individual's health status.
• It is not a linear process, but it is characterized by the interaction of multiple factors.

Etiology of Disease

• Etiology refers to the causes of the disease.
• Etiologic factors are the elements that contribute to the appearance of the disease, including:
  • Biological factors like genetics, age, sex, and immunity.
  • Environmental factors like pollution, exposure to toxic substances, and climate.
  • Psychological factors like stress, anxiety, and depression.
  • Social factors like poverty, inequality, and access to health.
• Most diseases are multifactorial, meaning they are due to the interaction of various factors.

Salutogenesis

• Salutogenesis refers to the factors that promote health and well-being.
• It is an approach that focuses on the strengths and resources of people to maintain health, instead of only focusing on the disease.
• Salutogenic factors are elements that contribute to health and well-being, for instance:
  • Sense of coherence, or the belief in the capacity to control life.
  • Social support, or positive relationships with other people.
  • Healthy lifestyle, a balanced diet, and regular physical exercise.

GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)

• It is a condition in which stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing heartburn, acid indigestion, and other symptoms.
• The causes of GERD can include:
  • Weakening of the lower esophageal sphincter, where the muscle that separates the esophagus from the stomach weakens, allowing acid to flow upwards.
  • Hiatal hernia, where a part of the stomach protrudes into the chest, which can increase pressure in the esophagus.
  • Pregnancy, where hormonal changes can relax the lower esophageal sphincter.
  • Obesity, where excess weight can increase pressure in the stomach.
  • Certain foods and drinks: Acidic, fatty and spicy foods, as well as alcohol and caffeine, can worsen GERD symptoms.