- Describe what is meant by health behaviours as a determinant of health. (2 marks)
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- Outline THREE health behaviours that have shown positive trends among young Australians in recent years. (3 marks)
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a. Health behaviours as a determinant of health:
- Health behaviours in this context refer to individual beliefs and actions regarding health and wellbeing.
- The behaviours can act as protective factors reducing illness risk or as risk factors increasing likelihood of injury or disease.
- The behaviours directly influence overall health status.
b. Answers could include 3 of the following:
- Alcohol consumption has improved with an increasing number of 14-24 year olds abstaining completely from alcohol consumption, reducing their risk of alcohol-related harm.
- Tobacco smoking rates have declined significantly, with over 85% of Australians aged 18 and over not smoking daily, contributing to reduced disease burden.
- Sexual practices have shown positive trends with increased condom use over the last decade. This trend indicates young people have greater protection against sexually transmitted infections and unwanted pregnancy, resulting in declining HIV and hepatitis C rates.
- Fruit consumption among children aged 5-14 has shown positive trends with nearly three-quarters meeting the recommended daily intake. This demonstrates improved nutritional awareness and potentially better long-term health outcomes.
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a. Health behaviours as a determinant of health:
- Health behaviours in this context refer to individual beliefs and actions regarding health and wellbeing.
- The behaviours can act as protective factors reducing illness risk or as risk factors increasing likelihood of injury or disease.
- The behaviours directly influence overall health status.
b. Answers could include 3 of the following:
- Alcohol consumption has improved with an increasing number of 14-24 year olds abstaining completely from alcohol consumption, reducing their risk of alcohol-related harm.
- Tobacco smoking rates have declined significantly, with over 85% of Australians aged 18 and over not smoking daily, contributing to reduced disease burden.
- Sexual practices have shown positive trends with increased condom use over the last decade. This trend indicates young people have greater protection against sexually transmitted infections and unwanted pregnancy, resulting in declining HIV and hepatitis C rates.
- Fruit consumption among children aged 5-14 has shown positive trends with nearly three-quarters meeting the recommended daily intake. This demonstrates improved nutritional awareness and potentially better long-term health outcomes.