Health Inequities in Society
Respond to two (2) of the following prompts:
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- Explain what stigmatization of illness means. Choose a common illness and explain how it might be stigmatized for people of different cultures or social classes? (USLO 10.1)
- Why do you think the United States has high obesity-related illnesses in comparison to lower-income nations? Within our society, what contributes to health inequities between people of varying socioeconomic statuses? (USLO 10.2)
- What are the differences between Medicare and Medicaid? What do you think are some of the downfalls of government funded healthcare in our society? (USLO 10.3)
- Describe the theoretical perspective that you think best explains the healthcare in our society? (USLO 10.4)
Prompt 1: Explain what stigmatization of illness means. Choose a common illness and explain how it might be stigmatized for people of different cultures or social classes. (USLO 10.1)
Stigmatization of illness refers to the negative labeling, discrimination, or social exclusion individuals experience due to having a particular health condition. This stigma can impact mental well-being, limit access to healthcare, and discourage individuals from seeking treatment.
Depression is a common illness that is often stigmatized differently across cultures and social classes. In some cultures, especially those with strong collectivist values, mental illness may be seen as a personal weakness or a source of family shame. For example, in some Asian cultures, individuals may hide their symptoms or refuse treatment to avoid social disgrace. In contrast, people in lower socioeconomic classes in the United States might experience stigma from assumptions that they are lazy or unmotivated rather than struggling……………………
Prompt 2: Why do you think the United States has high obesity-related illnesses in comparison to lower-income nations? Within our society, what contributes to health inequities between people of varying socioeconomic statuses? (USLO 10.2)
The United States experiences high rates of obesity-related illnesses due to a combination of lifestyle, environmental, and economic factors. Processed foods are often cheaper and more accessible than healthy options. Additionally, sedentary lifestyles, long working hours, and reliance on cars reduce physical activity. Fast food and sugary drinks are aggressively marketed and widely available, especially in low-income neighborhoods.
Health inequities within the U.S. are strongly tied to socioeconomic status. Individuals in low-income communities often lack access to safe places to exercise, nutritious foods, and affordable healthcare. Education also plays a role; lower levels of health literacy can make it harder to understand and follow medical advice or make………………
