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Health Care Issues in the Us

In: Miscellaneous

Submitted By deejswing
Words 837
Pages 4
Health Services Organization
Assignment #1, Health Care issues in the United States
Dr. Rashida Biggs
Alexander Johnson
October 20, 2011

Explain how health is affected by behaviors, economics, and social structure. Imagine a world where no one smokes cigarettes. This would be an amazing phenomenon due to not only a major economic factor but the health concerns that would not be an issue. Smoking is a behavior issue that has been argued since smoking ever was introduced. This behavior began more than 400 years ago (Schuman, MD) and has continued to be a huge health concern worldwide. There is historical data on tobacco use in the United States through the US Department of Agriculture with dates as early as the 1880’s to support the consumption by US citizens. With such a behavioral issue, the health care will always have a concern due to the effects of cigarette smoke and other tobacco related products. Health issues like cancer and cardiovascular diseases are directly related to this behavior. Although the rates of the diseases listed have shown somewhat of a decline, the health issues still remain and will for some time. Alcohol and illicit drug use are other behaviors that effect the health of Americans. When citizens use drugs, alcohol or tobacco, there are behaviors that are attributed to the use of such items that effect the health of individuals. These behaviors also play a role economically in the US. It has been studied that the behaviors discussed are addictive and those that are already in a economically challenged environment will do more to obtain these items than to take care of themselves health wise. This being said, those that are more fortunate that have more access to care and partake in behaviors that are less likely to experience the health concerns that those that are less fortunate do. The Social structure also play a major role in the

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