Influences on Health Chapter 26-1

Improvements in Health Vaccines – help reduce the rate of many illnesses (small pox, polio, influenza, etc.) and has helped eradicate some illnesses that used to be common Pathogens – viruses and bacteria that cause disease Antibiotics – special medicines that destroy disease-causing bacteria Overall standard of living today makes a difference Better housing and sanitation = better health More money to spend on health care and more access to it

Personal Choices about Health The overall level of health is better, but not everyone enjoys good health Serious illnesses can include: obesity, heart disease, cancer, and strokes Cardiovascular disease – heart-related diseases Stress, lack of exercise, poor eating habits, and smoking are all linked to heart disease

What is Wellness? Wellness – a positive state of physical and mental health A commitment to wellness means you’ve made a decision to live in a way that promotes good health Preventative measures – find out what health experts say about how to stay healthy and make these actions part of your routine when you’re healthy, you not only look and feel good, you feel good about yourself (positive self-esteem) Saves money on health care Illnesses can be prevented when people make good choices related to their health

Mental Health Mental health is as important as physical health Stress, crises, and other mental strains affect the body Stress can cause stomach problems, headaches, etc

Working Toward Wellness You’re in charge of following good health habits Nothing comes with guarantees Better chances for good health when you practice wellness Don’t make the mistake of thinking, “I won’t get sick”.

Looking at Limitations Not everything that affects your health is in your control Inherited diseases increase your chances of developing them (diabetes, heart disease, breast cancer, etc.) Some diseases are more common in one gender or cultural group Good health practices can lower your chance of these developing Health, even heredity diseases, are not set in stone Family health history can help you in the future Economic conditions – lower incomes = more health issues Use resources carefully

Wellness Tips Practice cleanliness – many contagious diseases can be prevent4ed by hand washing Get regular dental and medical checkups – early detection Become knowledgeable – up to date news/developments Be wary of false information – investigate before you believe Link with people who will support you – support groups/communities Make your own decisions – if people close to you have poor habits, you don’t have to imitate them You can choose your own path to wellness!