Describe the primary factors that affect personal health

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Answer:
• Lifestyle choices—such as deciding not to smoke, to be physically active, to avoid drinking excessively and eat nutritiously can greatly reduce risk of illness.
• Age—as we get older, some diseases such as chronic illness, become more likely.
• Sex—biological differences in gender can result in different health outcomes.
• Ethnic background—health disparities exist between different population subgroups.
• Geography—geographic region can affect exposure to diseases, risk factors, and access to health care.
• Income and health insurance—people at lower socioeconomic levels or without health insurance are less likely to get preventive care.
• Sexual orientation—Gay or bisexual men face greater risk of HIV/AIDS and other infectious diseases. Teens struggling with sexual orientation may face emotional challenges as well as physical abuse.
• Health literacy—Health information and the healthcare system can often be confusing and complex. Those with better navigational skills can positively affect their health.