Violence is considered a major health problem affecting women worldwide. There are several forms of violence and abuse against women including; domestic violence, sexual and physical violence, and verbal and emotional abuse.
There are numbers of options available for women to reduce their risk of violence and assault. It is important for women to be aware of their surroundings, especially at night time. I live alone and am extra cautious when I come home at night. I keep my cell phone close and look around before I get out of my car, you can never be too careful! Women that live alone also need to make sure to always keep their windows and doors locked.
I believe that one of the best ways to prevent abuse and violence against women is through education. Self defense classes are beneficial and teach women effective ways to protect themselves from physical assault. There are also many women that do not know how to get out of an abusive relationships. I think it is important they are educated on ways to handle these types of situations.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Drug Addiction
Is it better to put drug addicts in jail or send them to mandatory drug treatment programs?
I believe that it is not only better but more beneficial to enroll drug addicts in drug treatment programs. Addiction is very powerful, it can lead people to do things that they normally wouldn't do. Many crimes are committed solely in the pursuit of addiction.
With drug treatment, addicts can get help and learn steps to living a drug free lifestyle. Programs such as the 12 step support alcoholics and guide them to a healthier life, mentally and spiritually. Treatment programs also offer tools for recovery and relapse prevention. I think addicts need help and support to get off drugs. I'm not advocating that drug addicts and offenders go unpunished, but the prison system is completely overcrowded with non violent criminals, not all drug addicts are criminals. By providing drug abusers treatment makes it less likely they will return to the criminal justice system.
I believe that it is not only better but more beneficial to enroll drug addicts in drug treatment programs. Addiction is very powerful, it can lead people to do things that they normally wouldn't do. Many crimes are committed solely in the pursuit of addiction.
With drug treatment, addicts can get help and learn steps to living a drug free lifestyle. Programs such as the 12 step support alcoholics and guide them to a healthier life, mentally and spiritually. Treatment programs also offer tools for recovery and relapse prevention. I think addicts need help and support to get off drugs. I'm not advocating that drug addicts and offenders go unpunished, but the prison system is completely overcrowded with non violent criminals, not all drug addicts are criminals. By providing drug abusers treatment makes it less likely they will return to the criminal justice system.
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Mental Illness
It is easy for people to label a mentally disabled individual without knowing his or her underlying issue. Unfortunately, many mental illnesses have a stigma of negative attitudes following them. These stigmas can lead to discrimination, misconception, and embarrassment for those suffering from a mental illness and the ones who care for them.
It is important to talk about a mental illness instead of remaining closed off about the issue. People have tried to avoid these issues by not discussing them when discussing them can educate and clear up misconceptions.
I have seen the devastation that a mental illness can bring on a family. I knew a couple who had a son that suffered from schizophrenia. When he got older they became unable to adequately care for him. They were eventually forced to put him in a metal health facility which provided hourly surveillance and care for his condition. Very sad.
It is important to talk about a mental illness instead of remaining closed off about the issue. People have tried to avoid these issues by not discussing them when discussing them can educate and clear up misconceptions.
I have seen the devastation that a mental illness can bring on a family. I knew a couple who had a son that suffered from schizophrenia. When he got older they became unable to adequately care for him. They were eventually forced to put him in a metal health facility which provided hourly surveillance and care for his condition. Very sad.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a chronic illness that really interests me. Over 3 million people in the United States suffer from manic depression, or bipolar disorder. This chronic illness is in the category of mood disorders resulting in severe mood and behavioral changes which can last for weeks or even months.
There are many people who do not consider bipolar disorder a chronic illness. I strongly disagree. I have grown up with a parent with this mood disorder and had a past boyfriend that I suspected of having it. It not only affects the individual who has it but those around them. Bipolar disorder has actually been discovered worldwide. The World Health Organization states taht it makes up for about 1.2 percent of the worldwide population (http://www.worldhelathorg/bipolar.org)
Fortunately, with proper treatment bipolar disorder can be managed. There are a variety of medications and mood stabilizers on the market. Bipolar disorder does not always have to be treated with medication, treatment and counseling are also available.
There are many people who do not consider bipolar disorder a chronic illness. I strongly disagree. I have grown up with a parent with this mood disorder and had a past boyfriend that I suspected of having it. It not only affects the individual who has it but those around them. Bipolar disorder has actually been discovered worldwide. The World Health Organization states taht it makes up for about 1.2 percent of the worldwide population (http://www.worldhelathorg/bipolar.org)
Fortunately, with proper treatment bipolar disorder can be managed. There are a variety of medications and mood stabilizers on the market. Bipolar disorder does not always have to be treated with medication, treatment and counseling are also available.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Cardiovascular Disease
I think family medical history is a great factor which can influence women to adopt healthier lifestyles and preventative behaviors to reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease. It is important to find out if you have any family medical history of heart disease to prevent and avoid potential problems. Even though you can not change your family history you can make lifestyle changes to avoid many of the risk factors leading to cardiovascular disease.
It is crucial that women do not smoke! Smoking is a major risk factor leading to many health problems, especially heart disease. Second hand smoke can be harmful as well. I live in College Station, Texas and am very happy that the restaurants and bars have banned smoking indoors!
It is crucial that women do not smoke! Smoking is a major risk factor leading to many health problems, especially heart disease. Second hand smoke can be harmful as well. I live in College Station, Texas and am very happy that the restaurants and bars have banned smoking indoors!
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Healthy Lifestyle
One of the biggest challenges to maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise that I face is my irregular schedule. I am constantly on the go either to work or school. I do not have a set time for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Irregular eating patterns and skipping meals can be unhealthy and lead to weight gain.
Assignment 9 offered helpful information to living and maintaining a healthier life style. The Siteman Cancer Center website offered personal advice on disease risk prevention and tips to living a healthier life. I became aware that I need to decrease the unhealthy, unsaturated fats out of my diet and replace them with “good fats” such as; avocadoes and nuts. Take out food contains an abundance of unsaturated fats. After receiving my results from the disease risk assessment, my goal is to cook more meals and eat healthier!
These challenges are going to change for me in the next five years. I think exercise is very important in maintaining your health as you age. It improves bone density in women and reduces the risk of fractured or broken bones. Exercise also makes your feel better emotionally. It raises self esteem and reduces anxiety and depression. Osteoporosis is also a concern to me as I age. It is important that I take a multi vitamin on a daily basis to reduce my risk of osteoporosis. These health tips have helped me realize that it is crucial to maintain a healthy lifestyle now which will benefit me as I get older.
Assignment 9 offered helpful information to living and maintaining a healthier life style. The Siteman Cancer Center website offered personal advice on disease risk prevention and tips to living a healthier life. I became aware that I need to decrease the unhealthy, unsaturated fats out of my diet and replace them with “good fats” such as; avocadoes and nuts. Take out food contains an abundance of unsaturated fats. After receiving my results from the disease risk assessment, my goal is to cook more meals and eat healthier!
These challenges are going to change for me in the next five years. I think exercise is very important in maintaining your health as you age. It improves bone density in women and reduces the risk of fractured or broken bones. Exercise also makes your feel better emotionally. It raises self esteem and reduces anxiety and depression. Osteoporosis is also a concern to me as I age. It is important that I take a multi vitamin on a daily basis to reduce my risk of osteoporosis. These health tips have helped me realize that it is crucial to maintain a healthy lifestyle now which will benefit me as I get older.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Embracing Menopause
I believe that it is important for women to have a positive outlook on menopause and embrace the post menopausal years of their lives. Today’s society focuses very little on accepting aging and has looked upon menopause as a negative experience for many years. I disagree, menopause should be approached as a positive experience in a women’s life. Some non-Western cultures believe that a woman improves as she ages. The North American Menopause Society reports that half of postmenopausal women are happier and more fulfilled than in earlier years (Alexander p. 289).
My mother also believes that women get better with age. They have more wisdom and become more accepting of themselves. It is important for society to accept aging, menopause, and older women. Youth and beautiful appearances do not last forever!
Menopause does not have to slow women down. There are many therapies available to control the symptoms of menopause. It is also significant for women in society to voice their thoughts and concerns on menopause, in doing this fear and embarrassment can be avoided as well as associated myths concerning menopause.
My mother also believes that women get better with age. They have more wisdom and become more accepting of themselves. It is important for society to accept aging, menopause, and older women. Youth and beautiful appearances do not last forever!
Menopause does not have to slow women down. There are many therapies available to control the symptoms of menopause. It is also significant for women in society to voice their thoughts and concerns on menopause, in doing this fear and embarrassment can be avoided as well as associated myths concerning menopause.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Getting Tested
I would strongly encourage any friend or loved one to get tested if suspicious of an STD. It is extremely important to get tested, not only for the individuals’ health but the health of others as well. Choosing to make an informed decision about ones’ sexual health can prevent and reduce future health risk factors associated with STDs.
STD tests are especially important for women. Women are at a higher vulnerability to contracting an STD than men. Gynecology appointments and Pap smears annually are very important and recommended for women ages 18 years and older.
Human Papillomavirus is a rapidly growing STD and a serious health concern affecting women. Certain strains of the HPV infection can lead to cervical cancer and even death in women. Pap smears can detect early cell changes in the cervix before they turn into cancer.
I think it is ignorant to suspect an STD and not get tested out of fear of the unknown, especially if you have sexual contact with another individual! Getting tested may affect a current or future relationship. Communication with your partner is also important when considering getting tested. I would encourage anyone that feeling ashamed and fearful is a normal feeling and they are not alone. The sooner they get tested the sooner they can make a decision about their overall health and well being. It is important to practice safe sex and essential that women get a pap smear once a year. It may be uncomfortable, but deal with it! It involves your health, prevents the spread of STDs, and can save your life!
STD tests are especially important for women. Women are at a higher vulnerability to contracting an STD than men. Gynecology appointments and Pap smears annually are very important and recommended for women ages 18 years and older.
Human Papillomavirus is a rapidly growing STD and a serious health concern affecting women. Certain strains of the HPV infection can lead to cervical cancer and even death in women. Pap smears can detect early cell changes in the cervix before they turn into cancer.
I think it is ignorant to suspect an STD and not get tested out of fear of the unknown, especially if you have sexual contact with another individual! Getting tested may affect a current or future relationship. Communication with your partner is also important when considering getting tested. I would encourage anyone that feeling ashamed and fearful is a normal feeling and they are not alone. The sooner they get tested the sooner they can make a decision about their overall health and well being. It is important to practice safe sex and essential that women get a pap smear once a year. It may be uncomfortable, but deal with it! It involves your health, prevents the spread of STDs, and can save your life!
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Blog 6- Prenatal Testing
I believe that prenatal testing should be routine and performed for all pregnant women. It is not only important for the mothers health, but also that the unborn baby is healthy during the developmental stages. Prenatal testing can help identify health problems that could endanger the development and health of the baby.
Factors such as age, family medical history, and ethnicity should be considered when considering testing. It is especially important that pregnant women over the age of 35 years old receive prenatal tests because they are at an increased risk of having a child with a chromosomal disease such as Down syndrome. Inherited disorders such as sickle cell anemia, which is common in the African American population, should also be considered.
I also think it is important that women are educated and prepared if they receive positive results from a prenatal test. There are a lot of decisions to be made when considering and deciding the results of prenatal testing.
I believe that it is important that parents become educated about every aspect of pregnancy, from the beginning to the end!!
Factors such as age, family medical history, and ethnicity should be considered when considering testing. It is especially important that pregnant women over the age of 35 years old receive prenatal tests because they are at an increased risk of having a child with a chromosomal disease such as Down syndrome. Inherited disorders such as sickle cell anemia, which is common in the African American population, should also be considered.
I also think it is important that women are educated and prepared if they receive positive results from a prenatal test. There are a lot of decisions to be made when considering and deciding the results of prenatal testing.
I believe that it is important that parents become educated about every aspect of pregnancy, from the beginning to the end!!
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Blog #5
An individual’s culture and religion can have a great impact on their contraceptive decision making along with many other factors. In many cultures, women are left with the primary responsibility of contraceptive decisions. Religious beliefs can affect or limit a woman’s contraception use as many religions believe contraception is a form of abortion and an unnatural act against God.
The Roman Catholic Church does not fully accept contraceptive birth control methods. As result, many catholic woman use other methods of birth control… my grandmother is a devout catholic woman and practiced the calendar method of birth control during her child bearing years. Her and my grandfather had 13 children!
Many Catholics however disagree with the Church’s view on contraception. Among all cultures, there are many views on the acceptance of contraception. I think contraception should be acceptable in specific heath situations. For example; I have taken birth control pills since I was 14 years old to control severe bleeding and painful periods. For 9 years fo far I have had absolutely no complications with my menstrual cycle!
The Roman Catholic Church does not fully accept contraceptive birth control methods. As result, many catholic woman use other methods of birth control… my grandmother is a devout catholic woman and practiced the calendar method of birth control during her child bearing years. Her and my grandfather had 13 children!
Many Catholics however disagree with the Church’s view on contraception. Among all cultures, there are many views on the acceptance of contraception. I think contraception should be acceptable in specific heath situations. For example; I have taken birth control pills since I was 14 years old to control severe bleeding and painful periods. For 9 years fo far I have had absolutely no complications with my menstrual cycle!
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Blog #4
I believe that sex education is essential to teenagers and should be taught throughout the public school system. Sex is inevitable, adolescents are engaging in sexual activity at much younger ages than before. Sexually Transmitted Disease and pregnancy rates among teen females are shocking! I believe the acceptance of sex is to be partially blamed on our society and lack of morals.
It’s crucial that teens are educated on preventative measures to protect themselves and others if they do have sex. Abstinence plus programs in my opinion are more beneficial than abstinence only education. It is important for programs to encourage the practice of abstinence and inform adolescents of the consequences that can occur from not remaining abstinent. These programs provide information on condoms, contraception, HIV, STD’s and so on.
I also think that parents should be informed when their children are being taught abstinence plus education. Teaching teenagers about preventative measures and sex education is not encouraging them to do so as some parents believe. Research shows that these programs have no effect on the age of initiation of sex or delay it (Alexander et al., 2006).
It’s crucial that teens are educated on preventative measures to protect themselves and others if they do have sex. Abstinence plus programs in my opinion are more beneficial than abstinence only education. It is important for programs to encourage the practice of abstinence and inform adolescents of the consequences that can occur from not remaining abstinent. These programs provide information on condoms, contraception, HIV, STD’s and so on.
I also think that parents should be informed when their children are being taught abstinence plus education. Teaching teenagers about preventative measures and sex education is not encouraging them to do so as some parents believe. Research shows that these programs have no effect on the age of initiation of sex or delay it (Alexander et al., 2006).
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Blog #3
Unfortunately, I would have to rate my preventative health practices at a lower than average score. My personal health practices have significantly decreased since I have been in college and working. In no way am I making excuses for myself! I believe much effort is required in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
After recently assessing my health and health practices, I have been inspired and motivated to get back on track to a healthy lifestyle! Some ways to improve my health are to exercise more, eat healthier, and get more sleep!
Exercise is very important to physical and emotional health. My stress levels can get high and difficult to maintain at times and exercise significantly controls the way I feel. When I'm depressed for example, if I walk or jog for half and hour I feel so much better inside and out! Living by myself has also impacted my eating habits. I very seldom cook for myself which leads to me often eating or ordering out. My goal is to make more meals at home which will not only be healthier but it will save money as well! Another health issue I need to improve is my sleeping habits. I am a full time student and part time employee. I find myself staying up late hours to complete school work and waking up early in the morning for work. Sleep is essential for cognition and without it my day is difficult to get through.
I do however implement preventative health practices which will benefit me in the future. I visit the dentist every 6 months to a year and the optometrist as well. I also get a yearly exam which is extremely important for women's health! I plan on following my goals to a healthier lifestyle, I want to start taking a woman's vitamin every day and also fish oil, which has numerous benefits.
After recently assessing my health and health practices, I have been inspired and motivated to get back on track to a healthy lifestyle! Some ways to improve my health are to exercise more, eat healthier, and get more sleep!
Exercise is very important to physical and emotional health. My stress levels can get high and difficult to maintain at times and exercise significantly controls the way I feel. When I'm depressed for example, if I walk or jog for half and hour I feel so much better inside and out! Living by myself has also impacted my eating habits. I very seldom cook for myself which leads to me often eating or ordering out. My goal is to make more meals at home which will not only be healthier but it will save money as well! Another health issue I need to improve is my sleeping habits. I am a full time student and part time employee. I find myself staying up late hours to complete school work and waking up early in the morning for work. Sleep is essential for cognition and without it my day is difficult to get through.
I do however implement preventative health practices which will benefit me in the future. I visit the dentist every 6 months to a year and the optometrist as well. I also get a yearly exam which is extremely important for women's health! I plan on following my goals to a healthier lifestyle, I want to start taking a woman's vitamin every day and also fish oil, which has numerous benefits.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Blog #2
I believe there are many advantages and disadvantages to a Universal Health care system in the United States. One of the major issues concerning health care is the expense. Providing free health services to every American would be very costly. Taxes would also increase and medical providers income as well as businesses' would more than likely decrease. I think that the pay cut would be a huge disadvantage to medical doctors. Physicians in Germany and Japan reported that they are unable to benefit from any profit due to the fixed medical costs. Is health care a right or a privilege? Its difficult for me to say..I have so many different opinions on the subject!
I do believe that every child deserves the right to free medical care as well as the elderly. Medicare and Medicaid are wonderful government health agencies but they do not fully cover all medical necessities.
The government needs to figure out a solution towards fixing the health care problem and make it more affordable to Americans! I work part time at a family medical clinic and it breaks my heart seeing patients that can not afford to get an MRI or pay for their medication becuase the incusrance deductible has not been met. Americans deserve better!
I do believe that every child deserves the right to free medical care as well as the elderly. Medicare and Medicaid are wonderful government health agencies but they do not fully cover all medical necessities.
The government needs to figure out a solution towards fixing the health care problem and make it more affordable to Americans! I work part time at a family medical clinic and it breaks my heart seeing patients that can not afford to get an MRI or pay for their medication becuase the incusrance deductible has not been met. Americans deserve better!
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Blog #1
One health issue that concerns me is women smokers that take contraceptives. I work in the emergency room and often see complications with this in women of all ages. Smoking and birth control pills do not mix! It is damaging and dangerous in general for women to smoke, especially while taking contraceptives. Smoking while on birth control includes serious side effects such as; heart attacks, high blood pressure, strokes, and even blood clots. Nicotine causes high blood pressure and an increased heart rate, which stresses the blood vessels. But in women taking birth control, the extra estrogen in the body makes those vessels more weak and vulnerable (American Association for Cancer Research, 2007). I believe that companies educate and inform women enough to not smoke while taking contraceptives, each pack of birth control pills comes with a brochure on side effects and symptoms.
I asked a 40 year old, caucasian woman I work with what health issue she was most concerned with, which was weight gain in women her age. Weight gain in women leads to many health problems including; hypertension, cholesterol problems, thyroid complications, and depression. During middle age weight gain is often due to menopause. I also asked a friend who is 23 year of age, what health issue was important to her and she was concerned with post partum depression. She had a child two years ago and experienced minor post partum depression symptoms.
I asked a 40 year old, caucasian woman I work with what health issue she was most concerned with, which was weight gain in women her age. Weight gain in women leads to many health problems including; hypertension, cholesterol problems, thyroid complications, and depression. During middle age weight gain is often due to menopause. I also asked a friend who is 23 year of age, what health issue was important to her and she was concerned with post partum depression. She had a child two years ago and experienced minor post partum depression symptoms.
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