Mod 2 Health and Disease

Question 1

What does good health pertain to?

Answer 1

The health of Body, Mind & Spirit

To be healthy is to be functioning normally – normality is statistical, and functions are biological.

Question 2

What are the requirements of good health

Answer 2

regular exercise & recreation; a balanced (nutritious) diet
no
substance (smoking, alcohol, drugs) use/abuse

adequate amount of sleep& rest
regular medical check-ups

stress free living.

Question 3

Definition of Health (traditional)

Answer 3

Health is a state of complete physical, social and mental well-being and not just the absence of disease or infirmity (WHO, 1948)

Question 4

Importance of Good health

Answer 4

Ensures a good quality of life for everyone.
* Contributes to the economic and social stability of a country.
* It is essential to sustainable development.

Question 5

Key components of health

Answer 5

Physical: state in which each cell & all organs in the body are functioning at optimum capacity and in
perfect harmony.
Mental: (Intellectual): the ability to think clearly and coherently; well-adjusted to external
environment and the ability to recognize reality and cope with the demands of daily life.
Social: an acceptable level of social skills, social functioning, and the ability to see oneself as part of a
larger society; the quality of your relationships with society

Question 6

How has the initial concept of health changed

Answer 6

Complete state of health is unrealistic

Health has evolved over the centuries from an individual concern to a worldwide social goal and
encompasses the whole quality of life.

Biomedical concept of health (absence of disease) was inadequate

Ecological Concept was considered.
* Health is a dynamic equilibrium between man and his environment.
* Disease considered as a maladjustment of the human organism to the environment.
* Good health implies the relative absence of pain and discomfort and a continuous
adaptation and adjustment to the environment to ensure optimal function.
Psychosocial Concept was considered.
* Health is a biological and social phenomenon.
* Influenced by social, psychological, cultural, economic, and political factors.
* Health is a biological and social phenomenon.

Question 7

Definition of health (modern)

Answer 7

Health is now an interrelationship between the social, physical,
mental/intellectualspiritual, environmental & emotional factors which all contribute to a person’s well-being and quality of life.

Question 8

6 dimensions of health

Answer 8

Physical – normal functioning of the body – growth & physical maturation. Regular exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate rest contribute to maintaining good physical health.
Mental/Intellectual – ability to think clearly and rationally. It includes cognitive processes, problem-solving skills, memory, and emotional regulation. Taking care of our mental health involves activities like learning, reading, and engaging in stimulating conversations.
Emotional – ability to deal with one’s feelings, moods, anxiety, and stress. It’s about recognizing and managing emotions effectively. Practices like mindfulness, self-reflection, and seeking support when needed contribute to emotional well-being.
Environmental – ways in which the environment impacts on persons.
Spiritual – connected to one’s religious beliefs and one’s ability to achieve peace within oneself. It involves finding meaning, purpose, and inner peace. Practices like meditation, prayer, or connecting with nature contribute to spiritual well-being.
Social – ability to communicate with others and to maintain healthy relationships. Social connections, support networks, and a sense of belonging are essential for overall wellness.

Question 9

Definition of disease

Answer 9

Pathological changes diagnosed by symptoms and signs. Can cause ill
health and sometimes results in death

Question 10

What are the features (?) Of a disease

Answer 10

impairment of the normal state of the living body, in whole or in parts.
* interruption or changes in vital functions
* MUST be diagnosed by a medical practitioner.
* typical manifestation - distinguishing signs and symptoms.
* a response to either environmental factors, lifestyle, specific infective agents, or genetic
defects.

Question 10

Definition of Illness

Answer 10

A feeling which gives the perception of having a disease.
Concept - What you feel is not what may be diagnosed by a doctor.

Question 10

Health as a biomedical concept

Answer 10

Based on germ theory of disease - certain diseases are
caused by invasion of body by microorganisms
State of normal function that could be disrupted from time
to time by disease
Minimized role of environmental, social, psychological &
cultural determinants of health

Question 11

Limitations to the WHO 1948 definition of health

Answer 11

Demography of the populations has changed
Nature of diseases and their patterns have changed- rise of chronic diseases , decline of
acute illnesses
Public health measures changed- improved nutrition, hygiene, sanitation, healthcare
interventions

Question 12

What are the 5 D’s of Poor Health

Answer 12

1. Dissatisfaction
2. Disease
3. Discomfort
4. Disability
5. Death

To be in good health, we must have the absence of all 5 D’s
Poor health and disease have major implications for - family life, quality of life, productivity, and
economic cost- direct & indirect.

Question 13

2 main categories of disease

Answer 13

Communicable and Non- communicable

Question 14

What are communicable diseases?

Answer 14

Spread through close contact with infected person/s or through vector transmission.
* Easily spread (transmitted) from person to person
Communicable diseases are usually passed on by contact with vectors carrying the disease
pathogens.

Question 16

Poor health

Answer 16

Poor Health is measured by the 5 D’s - Dissatisfaction; Discomfort; Disability; Disease & Death.
Good health requires an absence of all the Ds.
Poor health and disease have major implications for - family life, quality of life, productivity, and
economic cost- direct & indirect.

Question 17

2 main categories of disease

Answer 17

Communicable and non-communicable

Question 18

Communicable disease definition

Answer 18

• Spread through close contact with infected person/s or through vector transmission.
• Easily spread (transmitted) from person to person
  Communicable diseases are usually passed on by contact with vectors carrying the disease
  pathogens.

Question 19

Types of vectors

Answer 19

➢ A disease vector is any living agent that carries and transmits an infectious disease or
pathogen to another living organism e.g. insects, rodents
➢ A biological vector is a living thing that carries the disease-causing agent or causative
organism from source reservoirs to the host.

Question 20

Examples of vectors

Answer 20

Arthropods – blood sucking insects such as mosquitoes, lice, fleas, ticks, and other
insects – cockroaches
* Animals e.g., rodents (rats, mice), dogs
* Plants e.g., types of fungi, parasites & toxins
* Microbes e.g., bacteria, viruses.
Vectors also include – humans (sick persons that are knowingly & unknowingly transmitting),
water (contaminated & untreated), food (contaminated, spoiled, uncooked), dust &
contaminated/polluted air.

Question 21

Vector Transmitted diseases

Answer 21

Parasites – malaria, head lice, scabies
Bacteria – strep throat, whooping cough(pertussis), cholera, salmonella, urinary tract
infections (UTIs), Sexually Transmitted diseases (STDs) & Tuberculosis
Viruses – flu, dengue fever, measles/mumps, malaria, yellow fever, Smallpox, Chicken
pox, Polio, HPV, HIV, H1N1, SARs, COVID 19, tuberculosis
Fungi – Athlete’s foot, ringworm, thrush
Toxins – asbestosis, silicosis, chronic bronchitis, asthma, leukemia
STDs – Chlamydia; Gonorrhoeae, Syphilis, Herpes, Trichomoniasis & HIV

Question 22

Common symptoms/signs of communicable diseases

Answer 22

High fever
diarrhea
vomiting
skin rashes or lesions
body pains
headaches

Question 23

Treatment of communicable diseases

Answer 23

• limit spread/ exposure by isolation of the infected person – social distancing.
• Vaccination / immunization
• Lifestyle change; STD management & treatment: controlled sexual behaviour.
• Practice good hygiene, sanitation & lifestyle changes.
• Use only chlorinated/ disinfected drinking water.
• Timely medical intervention – diagnoses & treatment using antibiotics.
  Scientific knowledge & understanding of communicable diseases.
• Use of technological interventions & treatment in medical laboratories & hospitals
• Education & awareness through constant surveillance / monitoring.

Question 24

Major communicable diseases affecting the Caribbean

Answer 24

Tuberculosis HIV/AIDS
Diarrheal diseases Malaria
Dengue fever Meningitis
Hepatitis
COVID-19
Chicken Pox

Question 25

What is dengue fever

Answer 25

Dengue is a communicable disease which is spread
from an infected person to another by the bite of an
infected Aedes aegypti mosquito (vector)
* Endemic in the Caribbean region – 2019 over 3,000 000 cases per 100,000
population
* Spread from one infected person to another by the Aedes aegypti mosquito.
* Viral (virus causing) disease.
* At least four strains
* Symptoms appear within 3-15 says and lasts from 1-2 weeks.
* Characterized by high fever, body rash, joint, muscle & body pains, itchiness,
eye redness, bleeding.

Question 26

Factors contributing to the spread of dengue

Answer 26

Unplanned urban development & growth.
* Poor sanitation encouraging vector breeding sites.
* Climate change/ Global warming has increased the range of vectors.
* Multiple strains due to mutation of the disease increase the severity of cases.
* Lack of adequate diagnostic facilities.
* Deterioration of public health infrastructure.
* Lack of education & awareness about the disease.
* Lack of vaccines and effective treatment regimes.
* Increased travel – air, land & sea.

Question 27

How do we limit the spread of dengue

Answer 27

Intensify health surveillance.
* Intensify mosquito control.
* Use personal protection.
* Heath education using public & community initiatives.
* Ensure that health professionals are adequately trained in the diagnosis &
treatment of Dengue.
* Adequately manage patient with diseases & patient care
* Mitigate against the effects of global warming.

Question 28

What are STDS

Answer 28

STDS are communicable diseases that Spread predominantly by sexual contact, including vaginal, anal and oral sex
More than 1 million people acquire a sexually transmitted
infection (STD) EVERY DAY
Majority of STDs are present without symptoms
Profound impact on sexual and reproductive health worldwide

Question 29

Main types of STDS

Answer 29

chlamydia gonorrhoeae
syphilis trichomoniasis
HIV

Question 30

What is HIV

Answer 30

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that
attacks the body
‘s immune system.
If HIV is not treated, it can lead to AIDS (Acquired
Immunodeficiency Syndrome)

Question 31

How is HIV spread

Answer 31

Spread by contact with bodily fluids of a person with HIV through:
unprotected sex
sharing injecting equipment
from mother-to-baby during pregnancy
birth and breastfeeding;
contaminated blood transfusions

Question 32

Progression of HIV treatment and prevention

Answer 32

*Advances in our scientific understanding of HIV and its prevention
*Treatment
Years of significant effort by the global health community and leading government and civil society orgs.

Question 33

Challenges of HIV treatment and prevention

Answer 33

Too many people with HIV or at risk for HIV still do not have access to
prevention, care, and treatment, and there is still no cure.
HIV epidemic not only affects the health of individuals - impacts
households, communities, and the development and economic growth of
nations.
Many of the countries hardest hit by HIV also suffer from other infectious
diseases, food insecurity, and other serious problems.

Question 34

What factors are driving the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the Caribbean

Answer 34

*Socio-cultural/behavioural and religious taboos.
*Lifestyle issues - substance abuse, influences from external media,
culture (tourism) with a growing brand name culture and modern
information technology
*Lack of individual skills - negotiation, creation and maintenance of
healthy human relationships, sex education and protective behaviours
*Economic factors – disparities in income distribution within and
between countries, economic hardship within a consumption market
*Bio-medical deficiencies - lack of comprehensive management of
PLWHA ( People living with HIV/AIDS) include ARV treatment Antiretroviral therapy
Structural inefficiencies

Question 35

SOCIO-CULTURAL FACTORS DRIVING THE HIV/AIDS
EPIDEMIC IN THE CARIBBEAN

Answer 35

*Early initiation of sexual activity
*Multiple sex partners for both male and female
*Persistent social taboos about discussion of sex and sexuality
with young people
*Strong homophobia (Time magazine called “the most
homophobic place on Earth” in 2006).
Growing sex tourism
*Commercial sex work especially among young girls
*Macho behaviour associated with poor partner communication
*High risk behaviours of heterosexual men e.g. having
unprotected sex with multiple partners

Question 36

What is Combination HIV prevention intervention

Answer 36

UNAIDS defines combination HIV prevention as rights-, evidence-, and community-based programs that
promote a combination of biomedical, behavioral, and structural interventions designed to meet the HIV
prevention needs of specific people and communities

Biomedical- Interventions with clinical and methods. Eg. Offering condoms and lubricants, antiretrovial treatment for all, PEP and PrEP, voluntary male circumcision

Structural- Interventions that promote and enabling environment. Eg. Decriminalisation of transmission and key populations Harmful laws include the criminalization of same-sex sexual relations, transgender people, HIV exposure, non-disclosure and transmission,drug possession and use, andsex work.
*Laws to protect rights of PLWHA
*Interventions to reduce stigma and discrimination

Behavioural- Intervetnions that promote healthy behaviours
Eg. Counseling on risk reduction, sex education, social media campaigns advocating for safe sex

Question 37

What is TB

Answer 37

Tuberculosis is a communicable disease caused by a bacteria (Mycobacterium tuberculosis)
that often affects the lungs.
It is one of the most infectious killers of the world and mainly affects low to middle income countries

No country has ever eliminated TB

Answer 38

Insufficient Diagnostic Capacity: Limited diagnostic capacity hinders effective case detection. Early diagnosis is crucial for timely treatment and preventing further transmission.

High Prevalence in HIV Patients: TB is particularly prevalent among individuals with HIV/AIDS.In fact, it ranks as the second leading cause of death due to an infectious agent worldwide, following COVID-191.

Extensive Drug Resistance: The emergence of multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) poses a major health security threat. MDR-TB strains are resistant to standard first-line drugs, making treatment more complex and costly.

Health System Challenges: Several countries face health system-related issues, including weak governance, limited funding, poor information systems, and inadequate supervision. These challenges impact TB control efforts.

Urbanization and Migration: Urbanization and migration contribute to TB transmission. Approximately 27% of the urban population lives in impoverished peripheral areas, where TB risk may be higher.

Co-Morbidities: An epidemiological transition has led to a growing presence of co-morbidities such as diabetes, alcoholism, smoking, and drug addiction. These conditions increase the risk of developing TB.

Vulnerable Populations: Ethnic minorities, prisoners, and migrants are vulnerable populations disproportionately affected by TB. Addressing their unique needs is essential for effective TB control.

Catastrophic Costs: TB patients often face catastrophic costs related to treatment, transportation, and lost income. These financial burdens can hinder access to care.

Shortage of Social Determinants Programs: Programs addressing underlying social determinants (such as poverty, housing, and nutrition) are essential. An inter-programmatic and inter-sectorial approach is needed to tackle these determinants effectively.

To combat TB, urgent, global, multi-sectoral actions are necessary, along with investments in research and rapid implementation of innovations worldwide

Question 39

Treatment of TB

Answer 39

Latent TB Infection:

If you have latent TB (meaning you’re infected but don’t have symptoms), your health care provider may recommend drug treatment. This is especially important for people with HIV/AIDS or other risk factors for active TB disease.Most latent TB infections are treated forthree to four months.

Active TB Disease:

If you have active TB disease (with symptoms), the main treatment involves taking antibiotics for an extended period.The standard treatment duration for active TB isat least six months.In some cases, treatment may lastfour, six, or nine monthsdepending on the severity and location of the infection.

Medications Used:

The most common antibiotics used for TB treatment include:
Isoniazid
Rifampin
Pyrazinamide
Ethambutol
Streptomycin

Additional Considerations:

If TB has spread to sensitive areas like the brain, spinal cord, or the area around the heart, you may also need to takesteroid medicinefor a few weeks.

NEW TECH

Challenges in Tuberculosis Control

You

explain these Tuberculosis challenges Insufficient diagnostic capacity that limits case detection High prevalence of TB patients in HIV patients (second in the world after Africa) Extensive drug resistance Health systems related issues in some countries like weak governance, limited funding, poor information systems and lack of supervision Increased rate of urbanization and migration with augmented inequalities and impoverished segments of the population (27% of urban population live in poor peripheral areas) An epidemiological transition with growing presence of co-morbidities like diabetes, alcoholism, smoking and drug addiction, all of which increase the risk for developing TB Presence of vulnerable populations: ethnic minorities, prisoners, and migrants Existence of catastrophic costs for TB patients Shortage of programs to address the underlying social determinants with an inter-programmatic and inter-sectorial approach.

Copilot

Explore

Certainly! Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant global health challenge, despite being preventable and treatable. Let’s delve into the specific challenges associated with TB:

Insufficient Diagnostic Capacity: Limited diagnostic capacity hinders effective case detection. Early diagnosis is crucial for timely treatment and preventing further transmission.

High Prevalence in HIV Patients: TB is particularly prevalent among individuals with HIV/AIDS.In fact, it ranks as the second leading cause of death due to an infectious agent worldwide, following COVID-191.

Extensive Drug Resistance: The emergence of multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) poses a major health security threat. MDR-TB strains are resistant to standard first-line drugs, making treatment more complex and costly.

Health System Challenges: Several countries face health system-related issues, including weak governance, limited funding, poor information systems, and inadequate supervision. These challenges impact TB control efforts.

Urbanization and Migration: Urbanization and migration contribute to TB transmission. Approximately 27% of the urban population lives in impoverished peripheral areas, where TB risk may be higher.

Co-Morbidities: An epidemiological transition has led to a growing presence of co-morbidities such as diabetes, alcoholism, smoking, and drug addiction. These conditions increase the risk of developing TB.

Vulnerable Populations: Ethnic minorities, prisoners, and migrants are vulnerable populations disproportionately affected by TB. Addressing their unique needs is essential for effective TB control.

Catastrophic Costs: TB patients often face catastrophic costs related to treatment, transportation, and lost income. These financial burdens can hinder access to care.

Shortage of Social Determinants Programs: Programs addressing underlying social determinants (such as poverty, housing, and nutrition) are essential. An inter-programmatic and inter-sectorial approach is needed to tackle these determinants effectively.

To combat TB, urgent, global, multi-sectoral actions are necessary, along with investments in research and rapid implementation of innovations worldwide1. Let’s continue working together to raise awareness and improve TB prevention and management! 🌏🌟

1breathe.ersjournals.com2bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com3mayoclinic.org4afro.who.int5who.int6bit.ly7gettyimages.com+5 more

You

how is science, medicine and technology being used to treat tb

Copilot

Certainly! Science, medicine, and technology play crucial roles in the ongoing efforts to treat tuberculosis (TB). Let’s explore some innovative approaches:

Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Drug Combinations:

Researchers from Tufts University have used AI to improve TB treatments. They analyzed data from large studies containing laboratory measurements of two-drug combinations of 12 anti-TB drugs.By using mathematical models, they identified rules that drug pairs need to satisfy to be potentially effective in three- and four-drug cocktails.This approach streamlines testing and helps predict successful drug combinations more accurately1.

Single-Cell RNA Sequencing (scRNAseq):

Scientists have used scRNAseq, a next-generation sequencing technology, to define mechanisms related to TB infection and latency.This technique provides insights into how TB affects individual cells, aiding in the development of targeted therapies2.

Faster Drug Combination Identification:

Researchers have developed an approach called “artificial intelligence-parabolic response surface.”It allows scientists to quickly identify effective three- or four-drug combinations among billions of possibilities.This method accelerates TB treatment discovery by up to five times compared to current therapies3.

Innovative Drug Delivery:

A novel approach involves inserting a coiled wire loaded with antibiotics into the patient’s stomach through a nasogastric tube.The device slowly releases antibiotics over a month, eliminating the need for daily pills.This reduces the burden of treatment and improves patient adherence.

Question 40

Impacts and Concerns of COVID-19

Answer 40

1. Ethics - Massive genomic screening, data privacy during a pandemic,
   contact tracing, mandatory vaccination
2. Health resources- limited supplies/infrastructure
3. Quarantine measures
4. Drug and vaccine development during pandemics
5. Mitigation measures - economic impact
6. Education - Distance learning
7. Mental Health
8. Digital technologies – surge in use- effects?
9. Need for collaboration especially among scientists- peer review
10. Loss of employment

Question 41

Is SARS COV-2 and COVID-19 the same?

Answer 41

No SARS COV-2 is a virus whilst COVID-19 is the disease

A virus is a pathogen that can cause an individual to develop an illness.

A disease is a physical condition that causes the body to change its normal composition

Question 42

What are NCDs

Answer 42

Non-communicable-Includes chronic or lifestyle diseases:
- Cannot be transferred from person to another.
- Also includes genetic diseases.

Question 43

Types/Manifestations of NCDs

Answer 43

Cancer – liver, lung, colon, breast, prostate
Type II Diabetes – mellitus.
Hypertension – high blood pressure
Cardiovascular - heart diseases,
Chronic respiratory - lung diseases/ disorders, pneumonia
Mental health
Genetic diseases - Sickle Cell anaemia, Cystic Fibrosis, Downs syndrome

Question 44

NCD Risk Factors

Answer 44

Unhealthy behaviours and lifestyle – factors that require self-management –
Chronic smoking.
regular excessive alcohol- binge drinking.
doping (substance abuse);
consuming poor (low nutritional value, processed foods) diets & food choices.
high salt (sodium), sugar and fat consumption.
no exercise or meaningful physical activity,
not laughing – mental health conditions.
no meditation,
conflict & aggression, crime.
2. Environmental factors – air pollution; weather changes; sunlight (UV radiation)
3. Sociodemographic factors – ageing & debilitation, race, gender, ethnicity, education &
income.
4. Medical conditions – medications, blood pressure, stroke, diabetes, cancers, respiratory lung
disease (e.g., pneumonia, asthma;), high lipids, glucose, Viruses, Obesity & stress, cardiovascular (heart) disease; cancers; accident-related injuries (internal & external); renal
failure – one of the above factors could trigger the onset of another.
5. Genetic (hereditary) Factors – family disease history; Genetic inheritance; Epigenetic changes;
Environmental exposure e.g. radiation; Toxic material-based mutations.

Question 45

Noncommunicable diseases are the result of mainly four risky behaviours – What are they?

Answer 45

1. High tobacco use - chain smoking,
2. harmful use of alcohol - binge drinking.
3. lack of sufficient physical activity – sedentary lifestyle
4. poor, unhealthy diet – high fat, calorie dense, excess salt & sugar, low nutritional content

Question 46

Key physiological changes as a result of NCDs

Answer 46

high blood pressure,
➢ overweight/obesity – excessive body fat,
➢ high blood glucose levels and
➢ high cholesterol levels.

Question 47

NCDs Mgmt

Answer 47

1. Lifestyle changes – reduction in alcohol and tobacco use.
2. Regular medical checks / doctor visits & Stringent medication management
3. Disease management: Interventions and change in behaviours and attitudes.
4. STD treatment
5. Cancer testing & screening.
6. Improved nutrition. Eating a balanced diet - food from the seven food groups (fast food has
   become a nutritional problem) which can lead to mineral deficiency.
7. Regular physical exercise and a reduced sedentary lifestyle.
8. Education and awareness

Question 48

What diseases account for the most NCD deaths (in order)

Answer 48

Cardiovascular diseases account for most NCD deaths, or 17.9 million people
annually
Cancers
respiratory diseases
diabetes

Question 49

Downsides of NCDS in the Caribbean

Answer 49

NCDs are responsible for productivity losses and increased economic burdens on
individuals, families, communities & nations (PAHO/WHO)
5. Human & economic cost of NCD related death & disability is placing a large burden on
Caribbean governments and the wider society.

Question 50

Different types of Diabetes and consequences

Answer 50

Type I – body does not produce enough insulin – requires insulin injections.
Type II – body produces insulin but cannot use it well - requires management.
Gestational – A temporary condition in pregnancy

Stroke & blindness
Heart attack
Kidney failure
Limb amputation

Question 51

Prevalent NCDs in SPECIFIC Caribbean Countries

Answer 51

Barbados - reported spending $64 mill on treating cardiovascular diseases and diabetes in
2015.
11. Jamaica - found that in 2017 approx. 30 000 children between 10 – 19 had been diagnosed
with hypertension and is experiencing an alarming rise in cardiovascular – related diseases.
12. Trinidad & Tobago - 1 out of every 4 deaths is caused by an NCD with heart disease and
breast cancer being the leading cause.
13. Guyana - has the highest death rate from hypertension (45%) the other Caribbean countries.

Question 52

Gender disparities & NCDs in the Caribbean

Answer 52

▪ Women are 60% more likely to have diabetes than men and twice as likely to be obese e.g.
Barbados.
▪ Trinidad & Tobago, Dominica, and Jamaica among top 14 countries in global female obesity
▪ Physical inactivity is significantly higher in women that in men.
▪ Men have lower rates of health service utilization and worse control of chronic conditions
such as hypertension.
▪ Men have higher death rates from NCDs at every age.
▪ Men have higher rates of harmful use of alcohol than women.

Question 53

EXISTING POLICY ACTION TO ADDRESS THE NCD EPIDEMIC: CARIBBEAN
Rebecca Harris, 2021

Answer 53

The 2007 Mandates of the Port of Spain Declaration (POSD):
Includes 27 commitments to action in the areas of reducing NCD risk factors, which include
improving healthcare awareness and quality, increasing development of appropriate legislative
frameworks, and establishing NCD commissions to provide effective monitoring and evaluation of
NCD prevention and control efforts.
Global WHO 25 x 25 Strategy:
After the 2007 mandate of the POSD in the Caribbean, the World Health Assembly set a global target
of a 25% reduction in NCD related mortality by 2025. Set as a part of the WHO’s Global NCD Action
Plan 2013-2020, the WHO detailed a total of nine voluntary national targets, with reduced mortality
from NCDs and stopping the rise in diabetes and obesity being among the most urgent.
The World Health Organization’s (WHO) Best Buys/Investments:
WHO has designed a set of affordable, cost-effective, and evidence-based interventions termed the
“WHO Best Buys” to achieve the Sustainable Development Target of 30% reduction of premature
NCD related deaths by 2030. Made up of six policy target areas: tobacco use, harmful alcohol use,
poor diet, low physical activity, management of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes and cancer
management.

Question 54

How do you get a NCD genetic disease?

Answer 54

Genetic disorders may be hereditary/ inheritance diseases - passed down from the parents to
children through genes.
* Susceptibility or predisposition present in a small % of the world population.
* Most genetic disorders are quite rare and affect one person in every several thousands or millions.

Question 55

What causes genetic disorders?

Answer 55

Genetic disorders are typically inherited (passed down) in either a dominant or recessive manner. We each have two copies of every gene on our 22 numbered chromosomes. In addition, females have two
copies of all the genes on the X chromosome, whereas males have one copy of the X chromosome genes
and one copy of the Y chromosome genes.
When a disorder is dominant, the disease can occur when there are DNA mistakes in only one of the
two gene copies. This means that if a parent has the DNA change, there is a 50-50 chance that it will be
passed on to each child.
When a disorder is recessive, there must be mistakes in both copies of the gene for the disorder to
occur. This means that both parents must carry at least one copy of the specific gene change in order to
produce an affected child.

Question 56

Types of Genetic NCDs

Answer 56

Sickle cell anaemia- affects the shape of red blood cells, which carry
oxygen to all parts of the body.
Red blood cells are usually round and flexible, so they move easily
through blood vessels. In sickle cell anemia, some red blood cells are
shaped like sickles or crescent moons. These sickle cells also become
rigid and sticky, which can slow or block blood flow.
There’s no cure for most people with sickle cell anemia. Treatments can
relieve pain and help prevent complications associated with the disease

Down’s syndrome- Extra copy of chromosome 21 that causes mental and physical challenges for the baby. likelihood increases with mother’s age. Manifestations include flattened face, smaller hands and feet and shorter than avg height
Cystic fibrosis- Categorised by lung congestion and infection and malabsoprtion of the nutrients in the pancreas.
Huntington’s disease- Degenerates nerve cells in the brain responsible for movement and thinking. Symptoms include depression, fidgeting and trouble focusing

Polycystic Kidney disease
Tay – Sachs disease-

Question 57

Treatment of Genetic Disorders

Answer 57

1. Education & awareness
2. Due care and attention to health status – regular medical checks
3. Early and accurate diagnosis & case management
4. Effective genetic intervention
5. Major sustained lifestyle changes

Question 58

Definition of Obesity

Answer 58

A condition associated with having an abnormal or excessive
accumulation of body fat in the human body that presents a risk to health and other
conditions.

Question 59

How is obesity measured

Answer 59

Body mass index (BMI) is an index of weight-for-height that
is commonly used to classify overweight and obesity in adults. It is measured by a
person’s weight in kilograms divided by the square of his height in meters (kg/m2)
(WHO, 2021)

Question 60

What can obesity lead to?

Answer 60

High blood pressure
Type II diabetes
Liver disease
Heart disease
High cholesterol
Cancer risk
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)- more serious form of acid reflux
Mood changes