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Question 29 — The Health of Young People (20 marks) (a) How does the health status of young people compare with that of other age groups in the Australian population? (b) To what extent have social actions and public policies affected the health of young people in Australia? - HSC - SSCE Personal Development and Physical Education - Question 29 - 2014 - Paper 1
Question 29
Question 29 — The Health of Young People (20 marks) (a) How does the health status of young people compare with that of other age groups in the Australian populatio... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Question 29 — The Health of Young People (20 marks) (a) How does the health status of young people compare with that of other age groups in the Australian population? (b) To what extent have social actions and public policies affected the health of young people in Australia? - HSC - SSCE Personal Development and Physical Education - Question 29 - 2014 - Paper 1
Step 1
How does the health status of young people compare with that of other age groups in the Australian population?
Answer
The health of young people is generally good when compared with older age groups, although there are significant differences in specific health aspects. While many young Australians report their health as either very good or excellent, the rates of mental health issues have been increasing. Young people are more susceptible to lifestyle-related health issues; for instance, they engage in high-risk behaviors such as substance abuse, which can lead to long-term health problems.
In terms of morbidity, young individuals often face issues related to injuries, accidents, and mental health disorders. For instance, injury is the leading cause of death among young Australians, surpassing chronic diseases that are more prevalent in older groups. Notably, younger individuals aged 15-24 have a lower prevalence of conditions like cancer and cardiovascular diseases compared to older groups.
Moreover, the health status of young Australians is influenced by environmental and social factors, with access to healthcare and education playing key roles. Comparatively, older age groups exhibit higher rates of chronic illnesses and comorbid conditions associated with aging, which are less common in young populations.
Step 2
To what extent have social actions and public policies affected the health of young people in Australia?
Answer
Social actions and public policies significantly impact young people's health in Australia. These initiatives can lead to improved health outcomes by promoting healthier behaviors and providing access to essential services. For instance, programs focused on mental health awareness and prevention have addressed issues such as anxiety and depression among young people. Initiatives like the HPV vaccination program have also increased health protection against certain cancers.
Moreover, efforts to create supportive environments, such as community programs that promote physical activities and discourage substance use, have shown effectiveness. Policies aimed at enhancing social support systems—like youth mentorship programs—help reinforce the mental and emotional well-being of young individuals.
Public policy frameworks, including health campaigns and educational initiatives, further encourage youth engagement and participation in their health decisions. Thus, the collective influence of these social actions and public policies is evident in the declining rates of preventable diseases and improved mental health outcomes among Australian youth.