APA format, at least 300 words, 2 references What are the major causes of disease and death in the 21st century (e.g., chronic illnesses, communicable diseases, etc.) that continue to affect U.S. citizens in spite of the achievements in public health in the past century? What have been some of the strategies implemented to combat these illnesses on the local and national levels? Have they been successful? Include reference citations where appropriate.
The major causes of disease and death in the 21st century in the United States continue to be chronic illnesses and communicable diseases. Despite the significant achievements in public health over the past century, these health issues persist and affect U.S. citizens. Chronic illnesses such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes remain leading causes of death in the country. Additionally, communicable diseases like influenza, HIV/AIDS, and hepatitis B and C continue to pose significant public health challenges.
One of the key reasons for the persistence of chronic illnesses is the aging population. As people live longer, they are more likely to develop chronic diseases related to lifestyle choices, such as poor diet, lack of physical activity, and tobacco use. These factors contribute to the high prevalence of conditions like heart disease and diabetes, which in turn lead to increased mortality rates.
Communicable diseases, on the other hand, continue to be a concern due to factors such as globalization and antibiotic resistance. Globalization has increased international travel and trade, allowing pathogens to spread rapidly across borders. This has led to the emergence and re-emergence of infectious diseases, as witnessed during outbreaks of SARS, Ebola, and most recently, COVID-19. Additionally, the misuse and overuse of antibiotics have contributed to the rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, making infections harder to treat and control.
Despite these ongoing challenges, significant efforts have been made to combat chronic illnesses and communicable diseases at both the local and national levels. On a local level, communities have implemented various strategies to promote healthy lifestyles and prevent chronic diseases. These include initiatives to increase access to nutritious food, promote physical activity, and reduce tobacco and alcohol consumption. For example, municipalities have implemented policies to restrict the marketing and sale of unhealthy foods and beverages in schools and public spaces. They have also established community gardens and recreational spaces to encourage physical activity.
At the national level, the U.S. government has implemented several strategies aimed at addressing chronic illnesses and communicable diseases. One of the key initiatives is the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which expanded access to healthcare and preventive services. Under the ACA, insurance plans are required to cover certain preventive services, such as vaccinations and screenings, without cost-sharing. This helps individuals detect diseases early and receive appropriate treatment, potentially reducing disease burden and mortality rates.
Furthermore, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) plays a crucial role in the prevention and control of both chronic and infectious diseases. The CDC conducts research, surveillance, and educational campaigns to promote healthy behaviors and prevent disease transmission. For instance, the CDC provides guidelines for healthcare providers on the management of chronic conditions and the prevention of infectious diseases. They also support state and local health departments in implementing interventions and strategies to control disease outbreaks.
Despite these efforts, it is important to assess the effectiveness of the strategies implemented. Evaluations have shown mixed results. For example, the implementation of tobacco control policies has led to significant reductions in smoking rates and related diseases. However, the rates of obesity and diabetes continue to rise, suggesting that more targeted interventions are needed to address these issues. Similarly, while progress has been made in reducing new HIV infections, challenges such as stigma, access to care, and adherence to treatment persist.
In conclusion, the major causes of disease and death in the 21st century in the United States encompass chronic illnesses and communicable diseases. The persistence of these health issues can be attributed to various factors such as the aging population, lifestyle choices, globalization, and antibiotic resistance. Efforts to combat these diseases have been implemented at the local and national levels, including promoting healthy lifestyles, expanding access to healthcare, and conducting research and surveillance. However, the effectiveness of these strategies varies, and continued efforts and targeted interventions are needed to further reduce the burden of these diseases on U.S. citizens.