Community Trends-Jamison Peterson

Jamison Peterson

November 13, 2012

Public Health Community Trends

            Last week I had the opportunity to speak with Cindy Burnett, a Surveillance Coordinator in Davis County. We discussed the following health concerns of the county: sexually transmitted disease, health care, obesity, prescription drug addiction, and health of the aging population.

STD’s: Sexually transmitted diseases are actually lower in Davis County than in most other county’s but they are still more frequent than ever before. The cause is an attitude change in our society. Sex is more casual than ever before. It is happening more frequently outside of marriage and with multiple partners. Another factor is internet dating which occurs more and more frequently, sometimes leads to intimate relations and thus more STD’s.

Health Care:  Many people cannot afford health care. There are several programs available for children who do not have health care available to them, but only some are available to adults. Cindy told me about two reported cases where people were found dead. They had not been able to afford health care and it lead to their death. Those who can’t afford to go to the doctor or the hospital will wait to get care. By the time they do the problem has usually intensified and it is more difficult and expensive to take care of.

Obesity: This is the same challenge that is being dealt with throughout the country. Once again, Davis County is one of the more healthy areas but it is still working hard to solve the obesity problem. It is especially prevalent in children. In a country filled with fast food and video games kids aren’t getting the exercise or the nutrients their bodies need. It has been predicted that this rising generation may be the first to be outlived by their parents! In Davis County and many others, laws are being passed that promote healthier living. A school in the Davis County district was fined for having drinks that contained too much sugar in their vending machines. School cafeterias are required to provide healthier food options. These are just a few examples of what Public Health officials are working to change.

Prescription Drug Abuse: The leading cause of death among adults used to be car crashes. That has now changed. The new leading cause comes from Prescription Drug abuse. Unfortunately we are seeing an increase in the amount of cases and individuals reported abusing prescription drugs. Such actions lead to serious health issues and many times over dose and death.

Health of the Aging Population: Ever heard of the baby boomer? The baby boomer generation is starting to get old. Not only are they getting older but they are living longer do to modern medicine. Old diseases that made age of death occur sooner are now better controlled. There is a significant increase in health care needed for senior citizens. How does this affect Davis County? We need more doctors and care facilities. It becomes a “burden” on the health care system making sure that all the seniors have adequate health care.