week 5 Flashcards
(11 cards)
What is the broad meaning of the word ‘environment’?
The environment refers to all the external elements that surround, influence, and affect life. It consists of the ‘natural environment’ and the ‘built environment’ (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, AIHW, 2018).
What is the built environment and its impact on health?
The built environment includes human-made surroundings like cities, housing, and infrastructure (e.g., transport, water, and energy networks). It affects health positively or negatively by influencing factors like physical activity, access to food, and exposure to illnesses (e.g., respiratory infections from poor housing) (AIHW, 2024).
What is the natural environment and how does it affect health?
The natural environment includes landscapes, habitats, and species on earth (land, water, biodiversity). Human intervention can negatively or positively affect both the natural environment and people’s health (physical and mental health). Issues like climate change and biodiversity loss impact health, highlighting the interrelationship between people and their environments (AIHW 2012, Keleher & MacDougall, 2016).
What is the biophilia hypothesis?
The biophilia hypothesis, proposed by Edward Wilson, suggests that humans have an innate need for connection with nature. Our tendency to seek contact with nature stems from living closely with other species throughout most of human history, and this connection remains important for our well-being (Wilson, cited in Keleher & MacDougall, 2016).
How does climate change impact health?
Climate change leads to increased natural disasters (e.g., floods, droughts, bushfires) that affect millions, causing both physical and mental health issues. Climate anxiety, particularly among youth, is a growing concern, along with physical impacts like injury, heat stress, and respiratory issues (Hickman et al., 2021).
How do environmental determinants affect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health?
Environmental health for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples is influenced by factors like access to clean water, adequate housing, and waste management. Their connection to Country (land, water, and animals) is central to their health and well-being, and they face disproportionate health burdens from environmental issues (Aboriginal HealthInfoNet, n.d.).
What are commercial determinants of health?
Commercial determinants of health refer to the influence of commercial actors (e.g., corporations) on health and equity. While large corporations contribute to health harms (e.g., unhealthy food), they can also have positive impacts (e.g., supporting tobacco-free policies). Their role in health is complex and involves interactions between the commercial, political, and economic systems (Gilmore et al., 2023).
What are digital determinants of health (DDoH)?
Digital determinants of health refer to factors in the digital world that directly or indirectly affect health. This includes internet access, digital literacy, and how digital technologies are used in healthcare, education, and social contexts. DDoH can both improve health and exacerbate disparities depending on access and use (WHO, 2024).
How does digital health impact specific population groups?
Priority populations, such as young people, those with lower socio-economic status, or older adults, may face health inequities due to limited access to digital technologies. These groups may experience higher levels of psychological distress or health risks due to the digital divide (WHO, 2024).
What are some environmental health factors specific to Aboriginal communities
Environmental health factors for Aboriginal communities include:
* Access to clean water and sanitation.
* Adequate housing and infrastructure.
* Healthy living practices and waste management. These factors are crucial in preventing diseases like trachoma and rheumatic heart disease (Aboriginal HealthInfoNet, n.d.).
