Question

information on Health behavior change affecting a vulnerable population

Answer 1

Human behavior plays a central role in the maintenance of health and the prevention of disease. Growing evidence suggests that effective programs to change individual health behavior require a composit approach to helping people adopt, change, and maintain behavior.

There are a number of groups that are considered vulnerable populations, including racial and ethnic minorities, the economically disadvantaged, and those with chronic health conditions.

An Unhealthy personal behavior patterns (e.g., cigarette smoking and other substance abuse, physical inactivity and poor food choices, non-adherence with medical prevention and treatment regimens) are the largest contributor to this problem.

Here are just 5 vulnerable populations who experience greater risk factors, worse access to care, and increased morbidity and mortality compared with the general population.

1. Chronically ill and disabled

2. Low-income and/or homeless individuals

3. Certain geographical communities

4. LGBTQ+ population

5. The very young and very old