Discussion: Evaluating Culture From the Nursing Perspective
This week, we will examine a case study about smokers in Poland. As noted in the Center for Global Development and Jassem, Przewozniak, & Zatonski (2014), prior to 1989, Poland had the highest rate of smoking in the world, with three-fourths of all men aged 20–60 smoking every day at a rate of 3,500 cigarettes per person per year. It should be noted that 30% of all women smoked every day, as well. This behavior resulted in a life expectancy of about 60 years due to the highest rates of lung cancer in the world and all-time high levels of smoking-related cancers and cardiovascular and respiratory disease.
To prepare for this Discussion, you will be required to read Case 14 by the Center for Global Development and complete readings in Stanhope and Lancaster, then respond to the following questions:
- What happened to change the culture of smoking in Poland?
- Understanding that we all have bias when discussing health issues and precipitating factors, what social and political factors allowed cigarette smoking to become a part of the Polish culture?
- Reflecting on your own practice, how do you overcome cultural bias? Do you find it more difficult to deal with some groups than others? How do people use the cultural information that they learn about others? Do you think this leads to stereotyping? Does cultural knowledge influence or change your practice and interaction with others?
Post your response to this Discussion.
Support your response with references from the professional nursing literature.
Notes Initial Post: This should be a 3-paragraph (at least 350 words) response. Be sure to use evidence from the readings and include in-text citations. Utilize essay-level writing practice and skills, including the use of transitional material and organizational frames. Avoid quotes; paraphrase to incorporate evidence into your own writing. A reference list is required. Use the most current evidence (usually ≤ 5 years old).
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
The prevalence of smoking in Poland during the late 1980s was incredibly high, contributing to a life expectancy of only 60 years due to high rates of smoking-related cancers and diseases. However, there has been a significant change in this culture since then. This assignment will explore the factors that led to this change, the societal and political factors that perpetuated smoking, and how cultural bias affects healthcare practitioners and the care they provide.
1. What happened to change the culture of smoking in Poland?
The culture of smoking in Poland changed dramatically following the collapse of communism in 1989. The country’s economy opened up to the Western world, and there was a significant influx of information regarding the health hazards of smoking. As a result, there was an increase in anti-smoking campaigns that targeted adolescents and the youth population. The government also became involved, implementing legislation to limit smoking in public places and prohibit cigarette advertising. These measures helped to reduce the rates of smoking and promote a healthier lifestyle among the Polish population.
2. Understanding that we all have bias when discussing health issues and precipitating factors, what social and political factors allowed cigarette smoking to become a part of the Polish culture?
Poland’s history of oppression and war resulted in a culture that valued the right to freedom and independence. Smoking was seen as a symbol of freedom, and the government did not interfere with citizens’ personal choices. Cigarettes were also affordable and readily available, with strong tobacco industries that influenced public policy to benefit their interests. Additionally, smoking was commonly accepted in society and, in some cases, even encouraged.
3. Reflecting on your own practice, how do you overcome cultural bias? Do you find it more difficult to deal with some groups than others? How do people use the cultural information that they learn about others? Do you think this leads to stereotyping? Does cultural knowledge influence or change your practice and interaction with others?
As a healthcare practitioner, it is essential to recognize cultural biases and take steps to overcome them. This can be done by seeking education and understanding cultural practices and beliefs, engaging diverse patient populations, and utilizing resources, such as interpreters or cultural brokers. I find it challenging to interact with some groups that have significantly different cultural practices, as it can be challenging to understand their perspectives. However, cultural knowledge has the potential to facilitate better communication and avoid stereotyping, leading to more effective and culturally sensitive care.
References:
Jassem, J., Przewozniak, K., & Zatonski, W. (2014). Tobacco control in Poland – a success story?. Journal of thoracic disease, 6(9), 1200–1205. https://doi.org/10.3978/j.issn.2072-1439.2014.08.12
Stanhope M., & Lancaster J. (2016). Public health nursing: population-centered health care in the community. Elsevier.
