Health needs of men or the elderly.

Explore the health needs of men or the elderly.
Step 1: Choose a health need to investigate.
From the following list, choose ONE health need to focus on for this assignment:
• Health needs of men: prostate health, cardiovascular health, sexual dysfunction, alcohol abuse
• Health needs of elderly: bone health, stroke care, cancer, social isolation

Step 2: Research the incidence and impact of this health need in the United States
Research the incidence and impact of the problem among the specified population. Use at least three scholarly sources (that is, peer-reviewed journal articles or websites written by a group that has expertise and strong credentials in the field of interest). Make sure that you use APA format to properly cite sources used.

Step 3: Propose prevention strategies.
Propose two relevant population-based strategies at each level of prevention (primary, secondary, and tertiary). For example, two strategies for primary prevention, two for secondary and two for tertiary prevention. It is acceptable to either develop your own ideas or highlight strategies that actual community-based programs are doing.

Full Answer Section

    Sources:

Step 3: Prevention Strategies

Primary Prevention:

  • Healthy Lifestyle Promotion: Community-based programs that encourage healthy eating habits, regular physical activity, and weight management can significantly reduce the risk of CVD in men [4]. Examples include partnering with schools to promote healthy lunches and offering subsidized gym memberships for low-income residents.
  • Public Awareness Campaigns: Educational campaigns can raise awareness about CVD risk factors and encourage men to seek preventive screenings like blood pressure checks and cholesterol testing [5]. This could involve public service announcements, social media campaigns, and partnerships with healthcare providers.

Secondary Prevention:

  • Early Detection and Management: Early detection and treatment of conditions like high blood pressure and high cholesterol can significantly reduce the risk of CVD events [6]. Community health fairs and mobile clinics can increase access to preventive screenings, particularly in underserved areas.
  • Worksite Wellness Programs: Programs that provide employees with health screenings, blood pressure monitoring, and educational resources on healthy living can promote early detection and risk factor management within the workplace.

Tertiary Prevention:

  • Cardiac Rehabilitation Programs: Following a cardiac event, rehabilitation programs can help men recover and improve their quality of life. These programs typically include exercise training, education on managing risk factors, and emotional support [7]. Partnerships between hospitals and community centers can expand access to these programs beyond traditional hospital settings.
  • Disease Management Programs: Disease management programs for men with chronic CVD can help them manage their condition, reduce complications, and prevent future events. These programs often involve regular consultations with healthcare providers, medication management support, and lifestyle counseling [8].

These are just a few examples of population-based prevention strategies that can help improve cardiovascular health in men. Implementing a comprehensive approach that addresses primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention is crucial to reducing the burden of CVD in this population group.

 

Sample Answer

     

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death for men in the United States according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) [1]. This makes it a critical health need to investigate.

Step 2: Incidence and Impact

  • Incidence: The CDC reports that in 2020, heart disease was the leading cause of death for men in the United States, accounting for one in four deaths (25.6%) [1]. Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death for men, accounting for 6.5% of deaths [2].
  • Impact: CVD impacts not only mortality rates but also quality of life. Men with CVD experience limitations in physical activity, reduced work productivity, and an increased burden on the healthcare system [3].