One Of The Goals Of Healthy People 2020 Is To Reduce Health

One Of The Goals Of Healthy People 2020 Is To Reduce Health Disparitie

One of the goals of Healthy People 2020 is to reduce health disparities among populations. Select one of the leading health indicators as identified by Healthy People 2020 and write a research paper of 1,200 words on the health disparities related to that condition. For the health indicator selected, the paper should include a discussion on the following:

Health Problem

  1. Definition of the problem
  2. Descriptive epidemiology (person, place, time)
  3. Etiology (causes, risk factors)

Health Disparities

  1. What disparities do we know exist for this disease?
  2. Why do these disparities exist?
  3. What explanations have been offered or supported?
  4. What research questions have not been studied that may provide new, insightful information regarding this health problem?

Public Policy

  1. Why is it an important public health problem?
  2. What are some social, political, or economic barriers in our current health care system that impede disease prevention and health promotion for this health problem?
  3. How would you educate/disseminate information about this health problem to the public? (target group, financial constraints)
  4. How could one of a health administrator/manager's general policies or policies specific to this health condition impact the health status of the target population?

You are required to use a minimum of three scholarly resources. Prepare this assignment according to the APA guidelines found in the APA Style Guide. An abstract is not required. This assignment is required to go through Turnitin. The grading rubric will be used by the instructor to grade the assignment and includes criteria such as the comprehensiveness of the health problem, analysis of disparities, policy discussion, quality of sources, and clarity of thesis and purpose.

Paper For Above instruction

The chosen health indicator for this research paper is hypertension, a prevalent condition also known as high blood pressure, which poses significant public health challenges and demonstrates notable disparities among different social groups. This paper explores the multifaceted aspects of hypertension, focusing on its definition, epidemiology, etiology, disparities, and the potential influence of public policies aimed at mitigation.

Health Problem

Hypertension is a chronic medical condition characterized by consistently elevated blood pressure levels, typically a systolic pressure of 130 mmHg or higher or a diastolic pressure of 80 mmHg or higher (American Heart Association, 2022). It is a primary risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, including stroke, heart attack, and kidney failure, thus representing a substantial burden on healthcare systems globally. The descriptive epidemiology indicates that hypertension prevalence varies by person, place, and time. Globally, it affects over 1.3 billion adults, with higher incidence rates observed among older adults, African Americans, and populations residing in urban settings (World Health Organization, 2021). Regions with limited healthcare infrastructure report higher undiagnosed and untreated cases. The etiology of hypertension involves complex interactions among genetic predispositions, behavioral factors such as diet and physical activity, socioeconomic status, and environmental influences (Whelton et al., 2018). Risk factors include obesity, excessive salt intake, sedentary lifestyles, alcohol consumption, stress, and genetic susceptibility.

Health Disparities

Extensive research demonstrates significant disparities in hypertension prevalence, control, and outcomes among various racial, socioeconomic, and geographic groups. Notably, African American populations experience higher prevalence and more severe complications from hypertension compared to Caucasians (Flack et al., 2014). Socioeconomic disparities also influence hypertension management; individuals with lower income levels and limited access to healthcare services are less likely to be diagnosed, receive treatment, or achieve blood pressure control (Khan et al., 2019). These disparities are rooted in social determinants of health, including education, neighborhood environments, and access to nutritious foods and safe places for physical activity. Explanations for these disparities include genetic factors, cultural attitudes toward healthcare, systemic biases in healthcare delivery, and economic barriers (Benjamin et al., 2019). Despite existing knowledge, research gaps persist concerning the influence of psychosocial stress and environmental exposures on hypertension disparities. Questions remain regarding the effectiveness of targeted interventions within vulnerable populations and how policy changes could mitigate these disparities.

Public Policy

Hypertension is a critical public health problem because of its widespread prevalence and its contribution to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Addressing hypertension disparities can reduce healthcare costs and improve quality of life, aligning with proactive public health strategies. However, social, political, and economic barriers hinder efforts to combat hypertension effectively. These include inadequate insurance coverage, disparities in healthcare access, lack of culturally competent care, and limited health literacy (Beran et al., 2019). Policies that promote equitable healthcare access, community-based health education, and affordable medication are essential but often face political resistance or resource constraints. Educating the public about hypertension involves culturally tailored outreach, especially targeting high-risk populations such as racial minorities and low-income groups. Dissemination methods include community health workers, social media campaigns, and local health initiatives that consider financial limitations. Furthermore, health administrators and policymakers can influence health outcomes through policies that prioritize preventive care, subsidize antihypertensive medications, and support equitable distribution of healthcare resources. Implementing policies that address social determinants of health, such as improving neighborhood environments and increasing health literacy, can significantly impact the hypertension burden among vulnerable populations.

Conclusion

Hypertension exemplifies a health condition with profound disparities influenced by social determinants. Tackling this public health issue requires comprehensive approaches that integrate clinical management with policy reforms aimed at reducing disparities. Understanding the causes, disparities, and effective policy interventions can guide future efforts to improve health equity and reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with hypertension.

References

  • American Heart Association. (2022). Understanding Blood Pressure Readings. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure
  • Benjamin, E. J., Muntner, P., Alonso, A., et al. (2019). Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics—2019 Update: A Report From the American Heart Association. Circulation, 139(10), e56-e528.
  • Beran, D., Cao, X., & Ikeda, N. (2019). Access to quality diabetes care in Low- and Middle-Income Countries. Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, 7(8), 582–583.
  • Flack, J. M., Sica, D., Hausenblas, A., et al. (2014). Management of Hypertension in African Americans: A Statement From the American Heart Association. Hypertension, 64(4), 783-794.
  • Khan, M. S., Amin, B., & Allah, N. (2019). Socioeconomic Determinants and Management of Hypertension. Journal of Hypertension, 37(9), 1808-1814.
  • Whelton, P. K., Carey, R. M., Aronow, W. S., et al. (2018). 2017 ACC/AHA Guideline for the Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Management of High Blood Pressure in Adults. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 71(19), e127–e248.
  • World Health Organization. (2021). Hypertension. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hypertension

Related Assignments