Prepare an article that could be published on GCU’s Health and Wellness With Purpose blog. This article may summarize the findings of a public health research study that has been published within the last year, or you may choose to write about a specific health issue and articulate a clear health message.
Exemplary submissions may be eligible for publishing on GCU’s Health and Wellness With Purposeblog, so students should use audience-appropriate language and write as if for publication. This is an opportunity to gain early recognition and be featured within the public health community.
Complete one of the following options:
Option 1: Summarize Research Findings
Prepare an article of 500-750-words in which you accomplish the following:
- Describe the study’s findings.
- Explain why the problem happened.
- Interpret what the study’s findings mean.
- Provide a compelling call to action related to addressing or solving the problem.
Option 2: Health Issue Summary with Health Message
Prepare an article of 500-750-words in which you accomplish the following:
- Provide an overview of the health issue.
- Describe the populations most at risk or most affected by the issue.
- Summarize ways to improve the health issue.
- Provide a clear health message to influence behavior change related to the issue.
Incorporate three to five resources to support your blog post article.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
Health and wellness with purpose is a vital aspect of human existence. With the increasing health challenges in our society today, it is essential to educate individuals on specific health issues and provide solutions to mitigate them. As medical college students, it is imperative to share our knowledge and findings with society through various platforms, such as published research studies and health and wellness blogs.
Option 1: Summarize Research Findings
In a recent public health research study, it was discovered that obesity rates are escalating in the United States, with approximately one-third of adults and one-fifth of children being obese. The study found that obesity is linked to various health conditions, such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. The prevalence of obesity is higher in certain populations, such as African Americans, Hispanics, and individuals with low-income status.
Obesity is more than a personal choice; it is a societal issue that results from environmental, economic, and social factors. The rise in obesity rates can be attributed to the availability and convenience of high-calorie foods, decreased physical activity, and sedentary lifestyles. Obesity also has a significant impact on the economy, with an estimated $147 billion annually being attributed to healthcare costs related to obesity.
To mitigate the prevalence of obesity, there needs to be an active involvement of both individuals and policymakers in addressing this issue. Individuals need to adopt healthy lifestyles, such as engaging in regular exercises, consuming healthy diets, and avoiding sedentary behaviors. Policymakers also need to create an enabling environment that promotes healthy behaviors and ensures access to healthy foods.
In conclusion, it is essential to address the obesity epidemic to ensure our society’s health and well-being. We must take action to promote healthy lifestyles and create an environment that supports these efforts.
Option 2: Health Issue Summary with Health Message
Mental health has become a significant public health concern, with an estimated 1 in 5 Americans experiencing a mental illness each year. Mental health conditions can lead to significant impairments in an individual’s daily life, affecting their relationships, productivity, and overall well-being.
Certain populations are more susceptible to mental health illnesses than others, such as individuals with low socioeconomic status, those with chronic medical conditions, and individuals who have experienced traumatic events.
Improving mental health requires a multi-faceted approach that involves several strategies, such as prevention, early intervention, and treatment of mental health conditions. Preventive measures include reducing stigma around mental illness, promoting mental health literacy, and creating an environment that supports mental health.
Early intervention is crucial in mitigating the adverse effects of mental illness. This can be achieved by enhancing access to mental health services, providing community-based resources, and education on warning signs and symptoms of mental health concerns.
Finally, treatment of mental health conditions is necessary to promote recovery and improve an individual’s quality of life. Treatment options include psychotherapy, medication, and support groups.
In conclusion, improving mental health requires a collective effort from individuals, policymakers, healthcare providers, and society. We must prioritize mental health and implement strategies to mitigate its prevalence and impact.
Resources:
1. National Alliance on Mental Illness. 2020.
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2021.
3. Mental Health America. 2021.
