Health Education MIDW 303 Week 1

Study Notes

Health is culturally defined and commonly viewed as the "absence of disease."
Ecological concept: Health results from a dynamic equilibrium between an individual and their environment.
Continuum of health: Ranges from optimal health to total disability or death, with a center point differentiating health from disease.
Dimensions of health include physical, mental, social, and spiritual wellbeing.

Physical Wellbeing: Related to body structure and functioning of organs and systems, emphasizing coordinated body movement.
Mental Wellbeing: Concerns mental functioning, characterized by freedom from internal conflict, social connectedness, and problem-solving abilities.
Social Wellbeing: Reflects harmony and integration between an individual and their societal interactions.
Spiritual Wellbeing: Relates to finding meaning and purpose in life, often tied to religious beliefs that provide strength.

Socio-economic Conditions:
- Economic status affects standard of living, quality of life, and disease patterns; higher socio-economic groups can have lifestyle-related diseases.
- Education correlates with poverty and health; female education particularly influences health outcomes.
- Occupation impacts health; employment can promote health, while unemployment can lead to increased health issues.
Health Services: Aimed at improving public health, for instance through immunization and maternal care. Services must be accessible, equitable, and widespread.
Other Contributory Factors:
- Factors such as agricultural and urban development and safe water access are critical for improving living standards and health.
- Issues like poor sanitation, lack of nutrition, and personal hygiene increase the risk of illness in developing countries.

Defined as measures taken to prevent disease emergence, comprising three levels:
- Primary Prevention: Activities to maintain health and prevent disease occurrences.
- Secondary Prevention: Focuses on early detection and treatment of diseases.
- Tertiary Prevention: Aims to reduce the impact of existing diseases.

Utilization Behavior: Involves accessing healthcare services like antenatal care and immunization.
Illness Behavior: The recognition of symptoms and seeking treatment; critical for secondary prevention.
Compliance Behavior: Adherence to prescribed medical treatments.
Rehabilitation Behavior: Necessary actions post-illness to prevent further disability.
Community Action: Collective efforts to improve community health through environmental changes.

Understanding health concepts and determinants is key in promoting health and preventing diseases.
Behavioral factors play a significant role in health outcomes and the effectiveness of health interventions.