Reference no: EM132085563
Writes 100 word opinions with references
There are many public health issues in and out of the United States. In my opinion the top 5 issues are the healthcare systems in the United States, mental health, chronic diseases (diabetes, heart and cancer), drug overdose, and protection against looming diseases from other countries (CDC's 7 public health, 2016). Some of these issues were ranked as the top 7 according to the Centers for Prevention and Disease Control.
I believe one of the biggest concerns in public health is our failing healthcare systems as there are too many people who are uninsured and suffer detrimental inequalities because of the lack of affordable and quality medical care. Health care has been a controversial issue over the years .
It is problematic that the government cannot reach amicable solutions to allow all people affordable health care and limit capitalization of services and products while doing so. Another problem, is bringing the mental health issue to the forefront and dealing with the stigma behind the horrible disease.
In recent times people are beginning to talk about their mental health issues; thus, the realization of the medical condition is slowly taking a turn for the better.
Next, chronic diseases such as diabetes heart disease, and cancer are other looming problems in public health. There must be a focus on these serious health conditions to continue to increase the life expectancy of individuals, especially since the population continue to age.
Another concerning issues is the increase of prescription drug overdoses noted in recent years. The opioid crisis has surged as the complaint of pain in many individuals has become a common phenomenon. Thus, more solutions must be observed and implemented besides prescribing oral pain medicines to those affected with chronic pain (CDC's 7 public health, 2016).
Finally, the threat of imminent diseases like Ebola and Zika must be monitored closely because the lack of vigilance could be catastrophic for the United States. There are many more public health concerns and not nearly enough funding or officials to deal with the problems of local, state, and global levels.
References
CDC's 7 public health threats in focus for 2017. (2016).