Explain concept of disease causation with example of a disease having web of causation.
Explain concept of disease causation with example of a disease having web of causation.
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The concept of disease causation emphasizes that diseases result from complex interactions between multiple factors, including biological, environmental, social, and behavioral influences. This holistic approach acknowledges that diseases rarely have a single cause but instead arise from a network or "web" of interconnected factors. One example of a disease with a web of causation is coronary heart disease (CHD).
Coronary heart disease involves the narrowing or blockage of coronary arteries, leading to reduced blood flow to the heart muscle and potentially causing chest pain (angina), heart attacks, or other complications. The web of causation for CHD includes various factors across multiple domains:
Biological Factors: Genetic predisposition to CHD, including family history of the disease, plays a significant role in disease causation. Additionally, factors such as age, gender, and race influence the risk of developing CHD.
Behavioral Factors: Lifestyle behaviors such as smoking, unhealthy diet (high in saturated fats, cholesterol, and sodium), physical inactivity, and excessive alcohol consumption contribute to the development of CHD. These behaviors can lead to conditions such as obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, and diabetes, which are major risk factors for CHD.
Environmental Factors: Environmental factors such as air pollution, exposure to secondhand smoke, and socioeconomic status can impact the risk of CHD. Individuals living in areas with poor air quality or experiencing socioeconomic disadvantage may have higher rates of CHD due to limited access to healthcare, unhealthy living conditions, and stress.
Social Factors: Social determinants of health, including education, income, employment, and social support networks, influence the risk of CHD. Socioeconomic disparities contribute to inequalities in access to healthcare, opportunities for healthy lifestyle choices, and overall health outcomes.
The web of causation for CHD illustrates the complex interplay between biological, environmental, social, and behavioral factors in disease causation. Addressing CHD requires a multifaceted approach that addresses these interconnected factors through primary prevention strategies such as promoting healthy lifestyles, reducing exposure to risk factors, and addressing social and environmental determinants of health.