Strategic Leader / Policy, Program and Project Manager
Group Fitness Instructor
​
Critical Foundations of Health Disciplines (MHST 601)
The Definition of Health
In 1948, the World Health Organization (WHO) defined health as a "state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” Although several iterations have emerged since 1948, the WHO definition remains prominent in literature and continues to guide global healthcare practices and service delivery.
Determinants of Health
The World Health Organization defines determinants of health as factors that “affect the health of individuals and communities,” such as a person’s behaviours or their social, physical and economic environment (WHO, 2017). The associated inequalities that I explored while completing my undergraduate studies many years ago do not appear to have changed.
Chronic Disease Data and Physical Activity as a Preventative Measure
According to the Government of Canada (2023), approximately 45.1% of Canadians are living with one or more chronic illnesses and the rate is expected to rise by 14% each year. Prominent conditions include obesity (29.2%), arthritis (19.5%) and hypertension (17.7%).
Vulnerable Populations:
Indigenous Children and Youth in Care
As a former Advocate for Alberta’s Office of the Child and Youth Advocate (OCYA) who has provided advocacy supports for children and youth in care, I have an interest in the health and wellbeing of young people receiving child intervention services. This week I have focused on injury and death rates of Alberta’s children and youth in care.
Vulnerable Populations:
Black Women's Maternal Health
The Lancet (2023) reports that Black women in the UK and US are 40% more likely to miscarry and 4 times more likely to die during pregnancy or childbirth, when compared to their White counterparts. It is believed that Black Canadian women experience similar disparities; however, research is limited. This week I have curated resources on the health disparities of Black women during pregnancy and childbirth to understand the Canadian perspective.
Advancements in Wearable Health Technology
for Illness and Chronic Disease Management and Prevention
Wearable technologies are electronic devices that can be worn on the wrist, chest, arm or hip. They have variety of health and wellness capabilities from tracking physical activity and location, to measuring body temperature, oxygen saturation, irregular heart rhythms, sleep patterns and resting heart rate. This week I have curated resources to explore this innovation further.
