Determinants+of+Health


 * //Here is a list of my// //__Determinants of Health__// //and how it influenced my life//

//Health Services//** Hepatitis C treatment is costly and on the rise. The treatment using ribavirin/pesinterferon combination can cost up to $30 000 per treatment. This treatment lasts 24 to 48 weeks. In 1998 the cost of having a liver transplant in Ontario was $121 732. In 1998, there were 217 liver transplants done costing Canadians $26 million. The need for liver transplant is expected to triple. With medical cost and lost work it is estimated that it costs the country $600 million (excluding liver transplants). The average lifetime cost for someone having Hepatitis C is $100 000. Today, there is no vaccine for hepatitis C.

Health care doesn't pay for all medical costs, so individuals are left to pick up the tab. Reduced work performance, absenteeism from work, and missed days from work for family or friends who care for the infected are a few problems that can arise when a person becomes ill. Individuals will than start to rely on permanent disability pensions as a source of primary income therefore, putting further pressure on Canada's social support systems. Drugs cost are on the rise and nearly everyone is being affected by this so don't be embarrassed to ask your health provider for a cheaper version. Inquire for free samples, see if you qualify for a pharmaceutical patient assistance program and ask if there are clinical trials in your area, or try the Medicine Program. This program is staffed by volunteers who attempt to find free-of charge prescriptions for a small fee per medication, contact // [|www.themedicineprogram.con] //
 * //Income and Social Status//**

//**Education and Literacy **// If you have hepatitis C, your not alone. Talk to people who care about you and ask for their support. Many people find it helpful to join a support group or connect with people on the internet who have the same disease. For more information about support groups in your area, visit **[|www.hcvadvocate.org]. ** Reseach gives hepatitis C patients hope. The Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Institute of Infection and Immunity, and the Public Health Agency of Canada's Community Acquired Infections Division are working together to support, promote and enhance hepatitis C associated research and training in Canada.

There are many things that people can do to maintain health and well being. Here are a few suggestions for a heathlier you: 1. See your health provider on a regular basis and tell them of any concerns you may have. 2. Eat a healthy & well balanced diet with a wide variety of fresh fruit and vegetables and try to stay away from sugar and fatty foods. 3. Try to find time to nap during the day and rest when tired. 4. Exercise regularly. Walking fights off fatique. 5. Be vaccinated for hepatitis A & B if you have not been infected. You don't want to get another illness and make things worse. 6. Alcohol can damage your liver so try to stop or cut down on alcohol. 7. Becareful with over-the-counter drugs such as Tylenol and ibuprofen as these can cause harm to the liver. 8. Becareful if mixing alcohol, drugs, or herbs. 9. Join a support group. This is good for emotional support and tips on how to better take care of yourself. 10. Learn as much as you can on hepatitis C so that you are prepared for the next step.
 * //Personal Health Practices and Coping Skills//**

Being tested positive for HCV could be pretty scary. The more knowledge you have the better prepared you will be. Knowledge makes healthier decisions for you and your liver. Information is the key to living well with hepatitis C. Support from families, friends and communities is known to promote better health. This is very important as it helps people solve problems, deal with lifes misfortune, and have a sense of control over life circumstances.
 * //Social Support Networks//**

It seems that hepatitis C has no preference, male or female. Hepatitis C can spread from person to person and is transmitted through blood contact. About 80% of people who have hepatitis C show no signs or symptoms of the disease. That is why it is called the Silent Epidemic.
 * //Gender//**