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Question 21 — Health Priorities in Australia (20 marks) (a) Explain why injury and diabetes have been identified as national health priority areas - HSC - SSCE Personal Development and Physical Education - Question 21 - 2008 - Paper 1
Question 21
Question 21 — Health Priorities in Australia (20 marks) (a) Explain why injury and diabetes have been identified as national health priority areas. (b) Analyse TWO... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Question 21 — Health Priorities in Australia (20 marks) (a) Explain why injury and diabetes have been identified as national health priority areas - HSC - SSCE Personal Development and Physical Education - Question 21 - 2008 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain why injury and diabetes have been identified as national health priority areas.
Answer
Injury and diabetes are identified as national health priority areas due to their significant impact on public health and the economy.
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Prevalence: Both conditions are prevalent in Australia. Diabetes, including type 1 and type 2, affects a large segment of the population, leading to serious complications if not managed effectively. Similarly, injuries, both accidental and intentional, contribute substantially to hospital admissions and long-term disability.
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Cost to community: The economic burden of these diseases is considerable. Diabetes often requires ongoing healthcare interventions, which can be costly, while injuries impose costs through healthcare, lost productivity, and rehabilitation.
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Social justice principles: Addressing these health issues aligns with social justice principles, ensuring that all population groups receive equitable health care and support. Inequalities in health outcomes related to socio-economic status highlight the need for targeted interventions.
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Potential for change: There are opportunities for effective interventions and preventive measures. Programs focusing on lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the incidence of diabetes and related injuries.
Step 2
Analyse TWO action areas of the Ottawa Charter that are used to address either skin cancer or lung cancer.
Answer
The Ottawa Charter outlines several action areas that can be applied to address lung and skin cancer. Here are two key areas:
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Building Healthy Public Policy: This area emphasizes the implementation of regulations and policies that prevent cancer. For instance, smoke-free laws reduce exposure to secondhand smoke, thereby lowering the risk of lung cancer. Health policies promoting sun safety can reduce skin cancer incidences through public awareness campaigns about the dangers of UV radiation impacts.
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Strengthening Community Action: Engaging communities in health initiatives empowers individuals to take control of their health. Community-based support programs targeting smoking cessation can significantly impact lung cancer rates. Similarly, local initiatives focused on promoting sunscreen use and protective clothing can effectively reduce skin cancer rates. These actions foster a sense of ownership and participation in community health.