Structural Approaches in Public Health

by Sommer; Marni

• ISBN13: 9780415500852
• ISBN10: 0415500850
• Edition: 1st
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 2013-05-03
• Publisher: Routledge

Summary

That health has many social determinants is established and a myriad of structural factors are now known to impact on population well-being. Public health practice has started exploring and responding to a range of health-related challenges from a structural paradigm, including individual and population vulnerability to infection with HIV and AIDS, injury-prevention, obesity, and smoking cessation. Recognising the inadequacy of public health responses that focus solely on individual behavior change to improve population health outcomes, this textbook promotes a more holistic approach. Discussing the structural factors related to health and well-being that are both within and outside of an individual s control, it explores what form structural approaches can take, the underlying theory of structure as a risk factor and the local realities, environments, and priorities that public health practitioners need to take into consideration. Anchored in empirical evidence, the book provides case studies of innovative and influential interventions “ from transfat bans and the 100% condom program to the provision of adequate clean drinking water and sanitation systems “ and concludes with a section on implementing and evaluating structural public health programs. This comprehensive handbook brings together a selection of internationally-recognised authors to provide an overview for students and practitioners working in or concerned with public health around the globe.