JAMES PENNY BERTILLO
GRADE 11 EXCELLENCE
Introduction
Health is one of the most critical aspects of human life, impacting everything from personal happiness
to societal progress. As health concerns and lifestyle-related diseases rise globally, the debate over the
best strategies for improving public health has gained momentum. This paper argues that prioritizing
preventive health measures, such as regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and early screenings, is
the most effective approach to creating a healthier population. I agree with the stance that proactive,
preventive care is more beneficial to society than reactive, curative healthcare. This position is
supported by the long-term health, economic, and societal benefits of preventive care.
Body
Background Information
Preventive health involves measures taken to prevent diseases, rather than treating them after they
occur. It includes lifestyle modifications, regular check-ups, and screenings that can detect early signs of
illness. Preventive health measures reduce the burden of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart
disease, and obesity. In contrast, reactive healthcare focuses on treating these diseases once they have
developed, which can be costly and may lead to severe complications.
Evidence Supporting Preventive Health
Proponents of preventive health argue that it not only improves quality of life but also reduces
healthcare costs. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), investing in preventive health can
lead to healthier populations and, ultimately, a reduction in the strain on healthcare systems. Studies
have shown that engaging in regular physical activity, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding tobacco and
excessive alcohol use can reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases by up to 80%. Moreover, early
detection of illnesses allows for less invasive and more effective treatments.
For example, in countries where preventive health measures are a priority, such as Japan and Sweden,
life expectancy and quality of life are among the highest in the world. These nations invest in
community-based programs that encourage healthy lifestyles and provide resources for regular health
screenings. This approach leads to lower health-care costs over time, as fewer individuals require costly
treatments for advanced diseases.
Examining Both Sides of the Issue
However, some argue that prioritizing preventive health is not without challenges. Opponents claim that
promoting preventive care can lead to excessive medical testing, which might result in unnecessary
procedures and anxiety among patients. They also argue that preventive health requires significant
upfront investment, which might not yield immediate results. In low-income areas, for instance,
implementing preventive programs can be difficult due to limited access to resources and health-care
professionals.
On the other hand, even with these challenges, the long-term benefits of preventive health outweigh the
drawbacks. While preventive care may involve initial costs, the financial savings generated by a
healthier population and reduced health-care demand are significant. Addressing the root causes of
health issues through prevention can lessen the burden on health-care systems and provide a higher
quality of life for individuals, especially in under-served communities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the evidence overwhelmingly supports the view that prioritizing preventive health
measures is essential to improving public health. Preventive care offers significant advantages,
including reduced health-care costs, better quality of life, and increased life expectancy. While there are
challenges associated with implementing preventive programs, the long-term benefits outweigh the
costs. To create a healthier future, governments should implement policies that promote healthy
lifestyles, fund preventive health programs, and make preventive care accessible to all. By adopting
these strategies, societies can reduce the burden of disease and create a more resilient population.
