6 Key Public Health Issues in 2022
The world we know today is constantly transforming, and new challenges to our health and well-being come with every year.
According to the WHO, several key public health issues will need to be addressed in the coming years. These include various communicable and non-communicable diseases, health concerns related to climate change, food security, and aging populations. And the nature of these threats is constantly evolving, so health systems need to be adaptable and responsive.
Recently, we have seen many significant changes to how we live and work, impacting every facet of our health. This article will cover some of the key public health issues plaguing 2022.
1. The Impact of Climate Change on Health
Climate change is undeniable, and communities worldwide are already feeling its effects. The impact of climate change on health will likely increase in the coming years as extreme weather events become more frequent and intense.
Heat waves, for instance, are expected to become more common and pose a serious threat to public health, particularly for vulnerable groups such as the elderly and those with chronic medical conditions.
In addition, extreme weather events can lead to the displacement of people, as well as damage to homes and infrastructure. It can disrupt access to essential services, such as healthcare, leading to a rise in infectious diseases.
Amidst such challenges, the only silver lining is the rise in individuals seeking to pursue this field and eradicate climate change. Aspiring professionals in the public health sector can enroll in an online MPH program to gain the skills, knowledge, and expertise crucial to addressing climate change health challenges. The online degree can be completed in as little as two years, equipping students with the skills and capabilities they need to make a difference in the lives of others.
2. The Spread of Antibiotic-Resistant Infections
Another catastrophic public health issue is the spread of antibiotic-resistant infections. These are infections that are resistant to antibiotics and are becoming more common as bacteria evolve and become more difficult to treat.
Antibiotic resistance is a serious problem because it can make infections more difficult to treat and lead to the spread of disease. In addition, antibiotic resistance can make existing medical treatments less effective and create new challenges for researchers developing new drugs.
The problem of antibiotic resistance will become more prevalent in the coming years as bacteria evolve and become more resistant to drugs. This global problem will require a coordinated effort from public health officials, healthcare workers, and pharmaceutical companies to address.
3. The Rise of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs)
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are chronic conditions that infectious agents do not cause. These include heart disease, stroke, cancer, and diabetes.
NCDs are a major public health concern because they are the leading cause of death globally. More alarmingly, NCDs are responsible for more than 70% of all deaths worldwide. Other factors, such as air pollution and physical inactivity, also play a role.
NCDs will become an even greater problem in the coming years as the global population continues to age. In addition, the prevalence of NCDs is increasing in developing countries, where risk factors such as tobacco use and obesity are rising.
4. The Opioid Crisis
The opioid crisis is an alarming public health crisis that has been unfolding in the United States for many years. It is characterized by the overuse and misuse of opioids, a group of strong pain medications.
Opioids are typically prescribed by professionals for pain relief but can be addictive and have serious side effects. Over time, the body often becomes tolerant to opioids, leading to dependency and addiction.
The opioid pandemic has had a devastating impact on communities across the country. It has contributed to a rise in overdose deaths and the spread of infectious diseases. The crisis has also placed a strain on healthcare resources and has harmed the economy.
The opioid crisis will continue in the coming years as the number of people addicted to opioids continues to rise. In addition, the crisis is likely to ripple effect on other public health issues, such as mental health and infectious diseases.
5. The Impact of Technology on Health
Technology has profoundly impacted all aspects of society, including health. Technology is indispensable to improving the quality of healthcare, and it can also serve as a tool to promote healthy behaviors.
However, technology can also have negative consequences on health. For example, the use of electronic cigarettes leads to an increase in lung cancer. Moreover, the use of social media has been linked to an increase in anxiety and depression.
The impact of technology on health will likely aggravate in the coming years. As new technologies come to the fore, it will be important to consider their potential impact on public health. In addition, as more people use technology, it will be crucial to monitor its effects on health and address any negative consequences.
6. The Impact of Economic Inequality on Health
Economic inequality is a major public health concern because it can harm many different aspects of health. For example, economic inequality can lead to a lack of access to healthcare, which can, in turn, lead to an increase in chronic diseases.
In addition, economic inequality can indirectly impact health by affecting factors such as diet, housing, and education. Economic inequality is also responsible for mental health problems, such as anxiety and depression.
Moreover, economic inequality will lead to more widespread issues in the coming years as income inequality continues to increase. It’s likely to have a greater influence on health in developing countries, where access to healthcare and other resources is limited.
Bottom Line
Public health concerns will, unfortunately, continue in the coming years, focusing on issues such as non-communicable diseases, the opioid crisis, and the impact of technology on health. In addition, economic inequality is likely to become an even more significant public health issue. It is important to address these concerns to promote the health and well-being of populations worldwide.