Tips ignore social determinants of health
Re 14 game-changing tips to master your health routine, Nov. 9 When talking about the health of an individual, it is commonly understood that their health is a result of the behavioural and lifestyle choices of that person. We are constantly influenced by media, articles, posters and advertisements that make us believe that our health is in our own hands and under our own control. However, when looking at the broader structures, we can quickly understand that this may be a complete misconception, and our health habits and routines aren’t as individually based as we once thought. The health habits of Canadians are a result of surrounding determinants of health such as physical environments, socio-economic status and availability (or lack) of resources.
The tips outlined in this article all focus on a behavioural change of the individual. From an ecological perspective, this article could have discussed more about community involvement in order to facilitate a healthier lifestyle. For example, it could be recommended that the individual find a friend, co-worker or family member with whom they can go on walks, hikes or jogs. By doing this, the person will feel more accountable when deciding to engage or not engage in physical activity. It will also develop a sense of trust within their community structures, causing the person to feel more comfortable and excited about being active in their communities.
Next, 11 recommendations on this list involve spending copious amounts of money to facilitate healthy habits. Although splurging and spending money can be an enjoyable process, it is simply not realistic for many individuals. Outfitting a kitchen, seeking professional attention and experimenting with technology may be completely unattainable and unrealistic for our population.
This article is inequitable for focusing solely on the individual’s behaviour as well as increasing the stratification of people based on socioeconomic status by creating what could be seen as a “glass ceiling” effect in which lowerincome individuals are aware of ways to be healthy, but cannot adopt them. Bethany Spiers, Toronto