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Question 21 — Health Priorities in Australia (20 marks) (a) Explain why injury and diabetes have been identified as national health priority areas - HSC - SSCE Personal Development and Physical Education - Question 21 - 2008 - Paper 1
Question 21
Question 21 — Health Priorities in Australia (20 marks) (a) Explain why injury and diabetes have been identified as national health priority areas. (b) Analyse TWO... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Question 21 — Health Priorities in Australia (20 marks) (a) Explain why injury and diabetes have been identified as national health priority areas - HSC - SSCE Personal Development and Physical Education - Question 21 - 2008 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain why injury and diabetes have been identified as national health priority areas.
Answer
Injuries and diabetes have been identified as national health priority areas due to several factors related to their prevalence and impact on the community.
Firstly, both conditions have a significant prevalence in Australia. Injuries are among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality, affecting individuals across various age groups. Diabetes, particularly Type 2, has seen a sharp rise in incidence due to lifestyle factors including poor diet and lack of physical activity. This increase highlights a critical public health concern that demands attention in health policies.
Secondly, the financial burden on the healthcare system is considerable. Both conditions lead to substantial healthcare costs culled from treatment, rehabilitation, and management, which can strain public health resources. Diabetes management alone incurs significant costs for individuals and the community, emphasizing the need for prioritization.
Lastly, these health issues reflect principles of social justice. Vulnerable populations, particularly those in lower socio-economic strata, have a higher incidence of both injuries and diabetes. Addressing these conditions through targeted interventions can promote equity in health outcomes, making it essential for national health priorities.
Step 2
Analyse TWO action areas of the Ottawa Charter that are used to address either skin cancer or lung cancer.
Answer
The Ottawa Charter identifies several action areas that are essential for improving public health and addressing specific diseases like skin cancer or lung cancer. Two notable areas include:
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Building Healthy Public Policy: This action area focuses on the creation of policies that support health-promoting environments. For instance, regulations on tanning salons and public campaigns to limit sun exposure directly impact skin cancer rates. Similarly, policies that limit smoking in public places can reduce lung cancer incidences. By advocating for legislation that promotes healthy behaviors, we can significantly decrease the prevalence of these types of cancers.
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Strengthening Community Action: Engaging communities in health promotion initiatives is crucial. This area emphasizes the importance of community involvement in health decision-making and program implementation. Local organizations can spearhead campaigns that educate individuals about skin protection and smoking cessation strategies. Such grassroots involvement fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility toward public health, ultimately leading to better health outcomes.