One of our jobs as public health nurses is to be aware of not only community, but also global health threats. According to this article published by the World Economic Forum, here are the top 10 most urgent health challenges for 2020: How do you all feel about these health challenges? Thoughts? 1 page pick 2 of the top ten Wood, J. (2020). These are the 10 biggest global health threats of the decade.
The field of public health plays a crucial role in addressing and mitigating the various health challenges faced by communities around the world. As stated in the article published by the World Economic Forum, there are ten major health threats that demand our attention in 2020. In this discussion, we will focus on two of these challenges, namely antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and air pollution.
Antimicrobial resistance is a growing concern in global health. It refers to the ability of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, to resist the effects of drugs that were previously effective in treating infections. The emergence of resistant strains is a result of various factors, including the misuse and overuse of antibiotics in human and animal healthcare, as well as in agriculture. The consequences of AMR include increased mortality rates, prolonged illness, and increased healthcare costs. In addition, it may render common medical procedures, such as surgeries and chemotherapy, less effective.
Addressing AMR requires a multi-faceted approach involving various stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, policymakers, the pharmaceutical industry, and the general public. Strategies to combat AMR include promoting responsible use of antibiotics, improving infection prevention and control measures in healthcare facilities, investing in research and development of new antimicrobial drugs, and enhancing surveillance systems to monitor the prevalence of resistant strains. Public health nurses can play a vital role in raising awareness about AMR, educating the public on the appropriate use of antibiotics, and collaborating with healthcare teams to implement effective infection control practices.
Air pollution is another pressing global health challenge, substantially impacting the health and well-being of populations worldwide. It is caused by the release of various pollutants, such as fine particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and ozone, into the atmosphere. These pollutants are generated from both natural and human activities, including industrial emissions, vehicular exhaust, and the burning of fossil fuels.
Exposure to air pollution has been linked to a range of health problems, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, increased mortality rates, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. It is estimated that air pollution is responsible for millions of premature deaths annually. Vulnerable populations, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions, are particularly at risk.
Efforts to address air pollution require a comprehensive approach involving multiple sectors, including environmental agencies, transportation departments, and urban planners. Public health nurses can contribute to these efforts by advocating for policies that reduce air pollution, promoting sustainable transportation options, and enhancing public awareness of the health risks associated with poor air quality. Additionally, they can collaborate with healthcare providers to ensure that individuals at higher risk are identified and provided with appropriate preventive measures.
In conclusion, the challenges of antimicrobial resistance and air pollution are significant global health concerns. Addressing these issues will require a collaborative effort from various sectors and stakeholders, including public health nurses. By raising awareness, advocating for policy changes, and implementing effective prevention and control measures, public health nurses can make a significant impact in mitigating the health risks associated with antimicrobial resistance and air pollution. However, it is important to recognize that these challenges are complex and require ongoing research, monitoring, and adaptation of strategies to ensure long-term success in protecting public health.