Define public health, wellbeing and disability and explore the relationship between health beliefs and health behaviours.

Health, Wellbeing and Disability

This assignment tests the following Learning Outcomes for the module:Delete any that do not apply and ensure that alternative instructions are entered in the box above.

Define public health, wellbeing and disability and explore the relationship between health beliefs and health behaviours. Discuss the determinants of health, well-being and healthy living, exploring current health inequalities across populations  from a local and national perspective. Outline contemporary public health policy nationally, how this is related to health and social care practice locally and the  registered nurse’s contribution to improving public health.  Demonstrate an understanding of the principles of the NMC Code (2015) in relation to health, wellbeing and disability.

Assignment Brief

Summative Assignment CW1.

2000 word essay:

Choose ONE of the following conditions for your essay.  You are required to write an academic essay to evidence your findings.

1. Alcohol and harmful drinking
2. Dementia
3. Type 2 Diabetes
4. Obesity
5. Sexual Health
6. Smoking 

Introduction

You should begin with a clear introduction, setting out how you intend to structure your essay. You must clearly identify your chosen condition in your introduction and your reason for choosing this condition

Body

• In the body of your answer must be found
•  A clear definition of public health, wellbeing and disability and how that relates to your chosen condition.
• A discussion about the determinants of health which explores current health inequalities from a local and national perspective and how these may impact on adults with the condition.
• An outline of national public health policy relating to your chosen public health topic and how it has been interpreted locally.  This should include an explanation of why an understanding of health behaviours is important. You are encouraged to use examples of local initiatives in this section.
• Consider the public health role of the nurse with regards to improving the population’s health and demonstrate an understanding of the NMC Code with regards to health, wellbeing, safeguarding and disability. 

Conclusion – A summary of your main findings. Do not introduce any new topics.

Sample Answer

Health, Wellbeing and Disability: A Public Health Perspective on Obesity

Introduction

This essay focuses on obesity as a major public health condition in the UK. I have chosen obesity because it is increasingly common and linked to serious long-term health problems such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and depression. It also places a high burden on the NHS and affects people of all ages and backgrounds.

The essay will first define key concepts like public health, wellbeing and disability, and explain how these relate to obesity. Next, it will examine the social and economic factors that affect obesity levels, highlighting current inequalities in both local and national contexts. Then, the essay will look at UK public health policies tackling obesity, including how these are applied at the local level. The role of nurses and their duties according to the NMC Code (2015) will also be discussed. Finally, the essay will summarise the key findings in the conclusion.

Definition of Public Health, Wellbeing and Disability in Relation to Obesity

Public health is the science and art of preventing disease, prolonging life, and promoting health through organised efforts of society (Acheson, 1988). It involves activities to improve the health of whole populations rather than treating individuals after they become ill.

Wellbeing refers to more than just being free from illness; it includes physical, emotional, and social wellness. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), wellbeing is "a state in which every individual realises their own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively, and is able to contribute to their community."

Disability refers to any condition that limits a person’s movements, senses, or activities. In some cases, obesity may lead to disability or worsen existing disabilities. People with physical or learning disabilities may also face higher risks of obesity due to limited mobility, medication side effects, or restricted access to healthy food and exercise opportunities.

Obesity is linked with reduced wellbeing, increased risk of disability, and poorer health outcomes. Public health aims to reduce obesity to improve population wellbeing and reduce pressures on health and social care services.

Determinants of Health and Health Inequalities

The determinants of health are the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age. These include income, education, housing, employment, environment, and access to healthcare (Dahlgren and Whitehead, 1991).

In the UK, obesity is more common in deprived areas. According to Public Health England (PHE, 2021), children from the most deprived areas are more than twice as likely to be obese compared to those from the least deprived areas. For example, in Birmingham, one of the most deprived cities in England, nearly 25% of children aged 10–11 are classified as obese (Birmingham City Council, 2022).

Nationally, ethnic minorities are also more likely to experience obesity due to a combination of genetic, cultural, and socio-economic factors. People with learning disabilities are also at a higher risk due to difficulties accessing health services, poor diet, and lack of tailored advice.

These inequalities show that obesity is not just a personal issue but a social one, influenced by wider structural problems.

Continued...