The Digital Age and Human Health PDF

GE2410 THE DIGITAL AGE AND HUMAN HEALTH The digital age has reshaped how we live, work, and connect. While technology and the internet bring both advantages and challenges, medical advancements continue to improve human health. This module focuses on their impact on modern...

GE2410 THE DIGITAL AGE AND HUMAN HEALTH The digital age has reshaped how we live, work, and connect. While technology and the internet bring both advantages and challenges, medical advancements continue to improve human health. This module focuses on their impact on modern life and well-being. The Digital Age: The Internet and Cybersecurity The Digital Age is characterized by the rapid growth of digital technologies, particularly the Internet, which connects billions of devices worldwide. Cybersecurity refers to the practice of protecting devices, systems, networks, and data from cyber threats such as hacking, data breaches, and malware. Cyber Threats and Risks The internet has several risks that users must be aware of, including: Cyberbullying involves using digital platforms to harass or intimidate others. This can occur through inappropriate messages, spreading rumors, or exclusion in online platforms such as social media, messaging apps, and gaming platforms. Example: A student spreading false rumors or posting hateful comments on Facebook. Identity Theft occurs when someone steals your personal or financial information and uses it without permission. This can lead to fraud, such as unauthorized purchases or fake accounts in your name. Example: A hacker accessing credit card details to make fraudulent purchases. Online scams trick people into stealing money or personal information using fake websites, emails, or messages. Scammers often pretend to be trustworthy businesses or individuals. Example: A “phishing” email pretending to be from a bank asking for login credentials. Viruses and Malware are programs that can harm devices by stealing personal data. They often spread through downloads, emails, or unsafe websites. Example: A computer virus that corrupts files on your laptop or a Trojan horse that lets hackers steal your passwords. Hacking occurs when someone obtains unauthorized access to a system or device, often stealing, altering, or misusing data. It can lead to privacy breaches and security concerns. Example: Hackers breach a company’s database and steal customer information. How to Stay Safe Online Protecting yourself online requires simple but effective cybersecurity practices: 1. Use Strong Passwords – Create unique passwords with letters, numbers, and symbols. Example: Instead of "password123," use "C0mpl3x@123!" 05 Handout 1A *Property of STI Page 1 of 4  GE2410 2. Install Antivirus Software – Antivirus software helps protect your devices from viruses and malware by scanning files for threats. Example: Use software like Windows Defender or Norton to block viruses. 3. Avoid Clicking Suspicious Links – Be cautious of unknown links, especially in unsolicited emails or messages. Example: Ignore an email claiming you won a prize when you never entered a contest. 05 Handout 1A *Property of STI Page 2 of 4  GE2410 HUMAN HEALTH Human health refers to physical, mental, and social well-being. It is not just the absence of disease but a state of complete wellness. Advancements in medicine and public health contribute to improving healthcare, preventing diseases, and ensuring longer, healthier lives. Medical Advancements Medical advancements are improvements in healthcare that make it easier to diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases. These advancements are often driven by technology, research, and innovation. Surgical Innovations enable less invasive procedures, faster recovery, and improved success rates. Example: 3D bioprinting uses a patient’s cells to create tissues and organs, reducing rejection and aiding recovery. It has already been used for skin grafts, cartilage, and drug testing, with plans to print kidneys, livers, and hearts. Telemedicine allows remote healthcare access using digital tools like video calls. Example: AI chatbots or virtual health assistants help doctors diagnose conditions faster. Wearable Health Technology like smartwatches and fitness trackers monitor health metrics. Example: Smart patches measure blood sugar levels without needles and improve diabetes management. Medical Imaging – Techniques like X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans help doctors see inside the body, improving diagnosis. Example: PillCam, a swallowable camera, captures images inside the digestive tract and makes diagnosis easier without invasive procedures. Restorative Medical Devices help regain lost functions through advanced prosthetics and implants. Example: Bionic eyes allow blind individuals to perceive light and shapes, with future potential for detailed vision. Public Health Public health improves community well-being through education, policies, and programs. Health Equity ensures everyone has access to quality healthcare for all. Example: Free clinics provide medical care to vulnerable communities. Disease Prevention reduces the spread of illnesses through vaccines and sanitation. Example: Free vaccination programs prevent outbreaks of diseases like polio and measles. Health Education promotes healthy habits and awareness. Example: Campaigns on exercise, nutrition, and smoking cessation can reduce chronic diseases. 05 Handout 1A *Property of STI Page 3 of 4  GE2410 Pandemic vs. Epidemic A pandemic is when a disease spreads across many countries and affects many people. While, an epidemic is a disease that spreads in one community or country. Major Pandemics in the Philippines The Spanish Flu (1918-1920) likely began in Kansas, USA. It spread among soldiers, reached Europe during World War I, and rapidly became a global pandemic. Though called the "Spanish Flu," Spain was not the source; it was simply the first to report on it. In the Philippines, returning soldiers and ships brought the virus that caused a rapid spread. Many deaths were caused by limited healthcare, which resulted in the death of thousands. The outbreak drew many individuals and exposed the challenges of handling a pandemic with minimal medical assistance. The Corona Virus Disease 2019 pandemic (2019-2023), also known as the COVID-19 pandemic, is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It impacted the Philippines, with the first confirmed case in January 2020. The government implemented strict lockdowns, closing businesses, schools, and public spaces to reduce the spread. Online classes and Work-from-Home (WFH) setups were introduced. To support those in need, the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act was passed to assist in combating COVID-19 and provide financial support. As the crisis progressed, millions were vaccinated, the virus was controlled, restrictions were eased, and the country began to recover. References Brown, W. (2025, March 7). AI in telemedicine outsourcing. Healthcare Outsourcing Services (BPO). https://staffingly.com/ai-in-telemedicine-outsourcing/. Becher, B. (2024, August 28). 3D-Printed Organs: Are we close? Built In. https://builtin.com/articles/3d-printed- organs. Commonwealth of Massachusetts. (n.d.). Know the types of cyber threats. Mass.gov. https://www.mass.gov/info- details/know-the-types-of-cyber-threats. Medtronic. (n.d.). PillCam SB 3 Capsule Endoscopy System. https://www.medtronic.com/en-us/healthcare- professionals/products/digestive-gastrointestinal/capsule-endoscopy/endoscopy-systems/pillcam-sb-3-capsule- endoscopy-system.html. Human health. (2024, October 8). https://www.nrdc.org/issues/human-health#solutions. Prey Project. (n.d.). What are cyber threats: how to protect your devices. https://preyproject.com/blog/cyber- threats. Senate of the Philippines. (2020). Bayanihan to Heal as One Act R.A. 11469. https://web.senate.gov.ph/Bayanihan- to-Heal-as-One-Act-RA-11469.pdf. UPM Biomedicals. (n.d.). What is 3D Bioprinting? https://www.upmbiomedicals.com/solutions/life-science/what- is-3d-bioprinting/. World Health Organization: WHO. (2020, January 10). Coronavirus. https://www.who.int/health- topics/coronavirus#tab=tab_1. 05 Handout 1A *Property of STI Page 4 of 4