Activity post 6

Based on the article by WHO entitled “Social Determinants of Health: The Solid Facts”, there are a lot of social determinants that can cause health of a person or population such as the social gradient, early life and also food. We can see how social structure can affect one health. When it comes to health, we often think of medicine, science or genetic. However, it is more than that. Element like social, politics and economy actually the one that make health issue happen – it is one of the causes. By looking at social aspect when dealing with health issue, we will not just able to tackle some of the material and social injustices, policy will not only improve health and well-being, but may also reduce a range of other social problems that flourish alongside ill health and are rooted in some of the same socioeconomic processes (WHO, 2003).

The diabetes issue in Malaysia might not be gender-biased health issue but there are significant different between the three main ethnic in Malaysia. Indian leading the three ethnics follow up by Malay and then Chinese. I believed that is due to the social gradient. The Chinese are considered as higher income group where it enables them to be more resourceful in health-seeking endeavors (Chew B.H. et, al., 2015). “Poor social and economic circumstances affect health throughout life” (WHO,2013). With higher income, it would be a no problem for the to seek alternatives if one does not work. 

Other than that, “observational research and intervention studies show that the foundations of adult health are laid in early childhood and before birth” (WHO, 2013). As I mention in past post, one of the risks factors of diabetes is obesity. Due to diet transaction where people in Malaysia lean toward western diet, there are increase in obesity among children. Like it was explained in the WHO article, it starts in early childhood. What they practice when they just a child will eventually be carried out to their adulthood. “Infant experience is important to later health because of the continued malleability of biological systems” (WHO, 2013).

Diabetes specifically Diabetes Type 2 is highly related to food intake. Excess intake (also a form of malnutrition) contributes to cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer, degenerative eye diseases, obesity and dental caries (WHO, 2013). I believed there are a lot of country that have diet transition toward western diet which contain more energy-dense fats. Thus, increase the number of obesities. “Dietary goals to prevent chronic diseases emphasize eating more fresh vegetables, fruits and pulses (legumes) and more minimally processed starchy foods, but less animal fat, refined sugars and salt” (WHO,2013). Yet again, “Most Malaysian adults are not practicing the dietary guidelines of balance and moderation for the recommended intakes of major food groups, in addition to being only moderately physically active” (Tee & Yap, 2017).

Reference:

Chew B.H., Hassan N. & Sherina M. (2015). Determinants of medication adherence among adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus in three Malaysian public health clinics: a cross-sectional study. Patient Prefer Adherence, 9, 639-648. 

Tee, E., & Yap, R. (2017). Type 2 diabetes mellitus in Malaysia: current trends and risk factors. European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 71(7), 844-849. 

Wilkinson, R. G., & Marmot, M. (2003). Social determinants of health: The solid facts. Copenhagen: World health organization, Regional Office for Europe.

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