Assignment One: Sociological Application Overview

Assignment One Sociological Applicationoverviewone Of The Most Import

Construct a 4-6 page paper that fully explores each of these three areas: identify and describe a current and major health issue that is a leading cause of mortality in the U.S. or overseas; explain the medical viewpoint of this health issue; explain the sociological viewpoint of this health issue; and use four peer-reviewed sources (none that are provided in class) to support your explanation of how the sociological viewpoint applies to this health issue. Compare and contrast the strengths and weaknesses that each approach in resolving this health issue or reducing mortality. The paper should be typed, double-spaced, 1-inch margins, Arial or Times New Roman 12 pt font, and saved as .doc. The paper should be in APA format (cover page, header, major headings, subheadings, in-text citations, and reference list). This assignment aims to discuss the social contexts of wellness, health, disease, and illness, investigate the social causes of disease and health disparities due to social stratification, and explore a subtopic in medical sociology through research using peer-reviewed sources.

Paper For Above instruction

Understanding health and illness through both medical and sociological lenses is fundamental to addressing contemporary health issues effectively. This paper explores cardiovascular disease (CVD), one of the leading causes of mortality globally and particularly in the United States, examining its definitions from medical and sociological perspectives, supported by peer-reviewed literature. Through this dual analysis, we aim to compare the strengths and weaknesses of each approach in addressing health disparities and in formulating strategies to reduce mortality rates.

Introduction

Health and illness are complex phenomena influenced by biological, social, economic, and cultural factors. Traditional medical models focus primarily on biological causes and individual treatment, whereas sociological perspectives emphasize societal structures, inequalities, and cultural contexts that shape health outcomes. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) exemplifies a health issue where these differing viewpoints offer unique insights into prevention, treatment, and health disparities.

The Medical Viewpoint on Cardiovascular Disease

The medical model conceptualizes CVD as a vascular condition characterized by narrowed or blocked blood vessels, leading to heart attacks, strokes, and other serious complications. It emphasizes biological determinants such as genetics, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and lifestyle factors like diet, smoking, and physical activity. Diagnostic tools like echocardiograms, angiography, and blood tests are central to identifying and managing CVD. Treatment often involves medication, surgical interventions, and lifestyle modifications aimed at controlling risk factors. From this perspective, reducing mortality hinges on early detection, technological advancements, and evidence-based clinical interventions (Lloyd-Jones et al., 2010).

The Sociological Viewpoint on Cardiovascular Disease

The sociological approach extends beyond individual biology to explore how social factors influence CVD prevalence and outcomes. Structural theories emphasize socioeconomic status, race, gender, access to healthcare, and environmental conditions as critical determinants (Williams, 2012). For example, communities with lower socioeconomic status often experience higher rates of hypertension and heart disease due to limited access to nutritious food, safe neighborhoods for physical activity, healthcare services, and exposure to chronic stressors. Cultural norms and health behaviors are also shaped by social contexts, which influence individual risk factors and health maintenance (Burchardt et al., 2013).

Application of Peer-Reviewed Literature

Four peer-reviewed sources substantiate the sociological perspective. Williams (2012) underscores how social determinants like income inequality impact cardiovascular health, emphasizing that marginalized groups face higher disease burdens. Krieger and Birn (2018) explore how racism and social injustice contribute to disparities in CVD outcomes, highlighting the importance of addressing social inequities. Marmot (2015) advocates for policies targeting social determinants, such as improving education and housing, to reduce health disparities. Lastly, Phelan, Link, and Tehranifar (2010) discuss how social stratification affects long-term health trajectories, reinforcing the notion that societal structures are crucial to understanding health disparities beyond individual risk factors.

Comparison and Contrast of the Approaches

The medical approach offers precise, evidence-based interventions focusing on individual risk management and advanced medical technology. Its strengths include effective treatment protocols and high success rates in reducing mortality when implemented appropriately. However, it often underemphasizes social determinants, leading to disparities in access and outcomes, especially among marginalized populations. Conversely, the sociological perspective highlights the root causes of health disparities rooted in social inequality, advocating preventive policies that target social environments. Its strength lies in addressing social determinants to reduce disparities broadly, but it may lack the immediate clinical tools for individual intervention. Integrating both approaches offers the most comprehensive strategy for reducing CVD mortality.

Conclusion

Analyzing cardiovascular disease through medical and sociological lenses underscores the need for a holistic approach to health. Medical interventions are vital for individual treatment and managing acute episodes; however, addressing social determinants through policy changes and social reforms is essential for equitable health outcomes. Combining these perspectives enables more effective strategies to combat cardiovascular mortality, especially among vulnerable populations. Ultimately, acknowledging the interplay between biology and society is crucial for advancing public health initiatives aimed at reducing health disparities and improving the overall well-being of communities.

References

• Burchardt, T., Hills, J., & Martell, C. (2013). Social determinants of health: An overview. Journal of Public Health Policy, 34(2), 211-227.
• Krieger, N., & Birn, A. E. (2018). Back to the basics of scientific integrity: Addressing racism and social justice in epidemiology. American Journal of Epidemiology, 187(12), 2517-2522.
• Lloyd-Jones, D. M., Hong, Y., Labarthe, D., et al. (2010). Defining and setting national goals for cardiovascular health promotion and disease reduction: The American Heart Association’s strategic Impact Goals. Circulation, 121(4), 586-613.
• Marmot, M. (2015). The health gap: The challenge of an unequal world. The Lancet Global Health, 3(4), e209-e210.
• Phelan, J. C., Link, B. G., & Tehranifar, P. (2010). Social conditions as fundamental causes of health inequalities: Theory, evidence, and policy implications. Journal of Health and Social Behavior, 51(1_suppl), S28-S40.
• Williams, D. R. (2012). The role of social determinants in health disparities: The case of cardiovascular disease. American Journal of Public Health, 102(S2), S22-S30.