4
DiscussionTwo
DiscussionTwo
Asa result of changes in lifestyles and demography, there is anincreased prevalence of terminal diseases. The majority of thesediseases are cardiopulmonary diseases. Terminal diseases account forabout 75 percent of health care spending in the United States and areleading causes of death in the world. Based on the fact that majorityof these diseases are lifestyle diseases, they are largelypreventable (Harris, 2013). Cardiopulmonary diseases can be preventedthrough health promotion activities, which promote changes inlifestyle and early screening. Studies suggest that obesity is one ofthe leading causes of chronic diseases. Health promotion campaignsthat reduce the prevalence of obesity in the society can be aneffective preventive approach to chronic diseases. This includes ahealthy diet and increased physical exercises. Generally, preventivemeasures should target the risk factors associated with chronicillnesses. Both hospitals based and community-based preventivemeasures are essential in promoting health outcomes (Abegunde, 2005).
Thereare several benefits that are associated with diseases preventivemeasures. Studies suggest that preventive medicine has a directimpact on the health care spending. Preventive programs requirefunding, but the amount is significantly less compared to the cost oftreatment. For example, tobacco smoking and obesity are associatedwith higher risks of chronic illnesses. The cost of health promotionactivities that educates the public on the risks associated withsmoking and obesity is significantly less compared to treating afraction of the population. Prevention of diseases can also reducethe mortality rate. Preventive measures may include early detectionof chronic diseases which increases the chances of survival. Forexample, if cancer is diagnosed early, there are more chances ofsurvival (Abegunde, 2005).
DearAntonio Ponce
Theincreased cost of medical services in the United States has attracteda lot of concerns. There is a need for health care approaches thatreduces demand and cost of health care services. Prevention ofdiseases is arguably cheaper that treatment of diseases. It can,therefore, provide an important solution to the problem. However,there are several hindrances to effective diseases preventionprograms. These hindrances may include individual as well asinstitutional factors.
DearMaria Ogroske
Iagree that prevention of diseases, either through clinical preventionor health promotion, has a huge impact on the health care system. Preventive measures reduce the number of times someone is likely tovisit a medical facility. This saves time and resources. The majorityof cardiopulmonary diseases are lifestyle diseases. They can beprevented through changes in lifestyles, for example, increasedphysical activity and healthy diet.
References
Abegunde,D. (2005). Preventingchronic diseases: a vital investment.Geneva: WHO.
Harris,R. (2013). Epidemiologyof chronic disease: global perspectives.Burlington, MA: Jones & Bartlett Learning.