HEALTH AND HYGIENE

byWiredufred Published:

 Objectives

The students will be able to:

o   Define the terms health, hygiene and sanitation.

o   Explain the need for observing personal hygiene.

o   Explain the term drug abuse and name the classes of drugs that are usually abused.

o   State the dangers posed by drug abuse.

o   Explain the term First Aid.

o   Describe different methods of administering First Aid.


health, hygiene and sanitation

Health and Hygiene

Health according to WHO is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. This implies that good health is not necessarily be the absence of disease but involves all the body organs functioning properly as well as physical and mental well-being of a person.

o   Hygiene: is the most effective way to prevent the spread of infectious disease. It is the science and practice of maintaining good health through cleanliness and voiding pathogens.

o   Personal Hygiene: is the basic principle of maintaining cleanliness to prevent dirt and pathogens from getting into contact with body. It is the first step to good health.

 

Ways of Ensuring Good Personal Hygiene

Ø  Washing the body often with water and soap

Ø  Regular Cleaning of teeth at least once a day

Ø  Hair must be washed thoroughly with soap or shampoo

Ø  Wash hands thoroughly with soap after visiting the toilet

Ø  Hand must be washed with soap before preparing and/or eating food.

Ø  Dirty clothes should be washed with laundry soap before wearing them again

Ø  Avoid sharing sponge and towel, tooth brush with other people

Ø  Fingernails and toenails must be kept short and clean always

 

Disease terminology

§  Pandemic: disease that occur more or less over the entire world at the same time.

§  Endemic: disease that occur continuously or recurrently in a particular geographic region

§  Epidemic: disease that attacks simultaneously a large number of persons living in a particular geographic region.

 

Sanitation

Sanitation is a measure taken to protect public health through proper solid waste disposal, sewage disposal, and cleanliness during food processing and preparation. Proper sanitation aims at preventing an outbreak of disease in the community, maintains good health and a clean environment to prevent disease.

 

Ways of maintaining proper sanitation in a community

v  Public education

v  Proper domestic waste disposal

v  Proper management of sewage disposal

v  Clearing of bushes around house

v  Proper sitting of refuse dumps, toilets or place of convenience

v  Clearing refuse dump

v  Cleaning of gutters and draining of stagnant waters

v  Provision of waste and refuse containers

v  Proper and efficient collection and disposal of refuse

 

Drug and Drug Abuse

Drug is any chemical substance, which introduced into the body, affects the body’s processes. OR Drug is chemical substances normally used in the treatment, cure, prevention, or diagnosis of disease or used to otherwise enhance physical or mental well-being.

 

Drug abuse, also called substance abuse or chemical abuse, is the deliberate use of an illegal drugs or excessive use of a prescribed drug. Drug abuse is a serious public health problem that affects almost every community and family. Drug abuse also plays a role in many major social problems, such as drugged driving, homelessness, crime, violence, stress, and child abuse.

 

Classification of Drug Abuse

Drug abuse can be classified into several categories based on the type of substances involved and their effects on the body and mind. Each category has distinct characteristics and potential health impacts. Here's a detailed overview:

1. Sedatives or Depressants

Characteristics: These drugs slow down brain activity, leading to a calming effect. Common effects include difficulty concentrating, poor judgment, slurred speech, and excessive sleepiness.

Examples: Xanax, Valium, Librium

Effects:

  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Poor judgment
  • Slurred speech
  • Sleepiness

For more information, visit National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) - Prescription Drug Abuse.

2. Cannabis (Marijuana)

Characteristics: Marijuana affects mood and perception, causing red eyes, loud talking, inappropriate laughter followed by sleepiness, and changes in appetite and weight.

Examples: Cannabis (Marijuana)

Effects:

  • Red eyes
  • Loud talking and inappropriate laughter
  • Sleepiness
  • Loss of interest
  • Weight gain or loss

For more details, check Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) - Marijuana.

3. Stimulants

Characteristics: Stimulants increase brain activity, leading to heightened alertness and energy. They can cause hyperactivity, irritability, excessive talking, depression, and sleep disturbances.

Examples: Amphetamines, Cocaine, Nicotine

Effects:

  • Hyperactivity
  • Irritability
  • Excessive talking
  • Depression
  • Difficult sleeping
  • Weight loss
  • Dry mouth and nose

For additional information, visit National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) - Stimulants.

4. Inhalants

Characteristics: Inhalants produce effects similar to those of sedatives and can impair cognitive functions. They may cause watery eyes, impaired vision, memory and thought issues, rashes around the nose, and anxiety.

Examples: Glues, Aerosols, Vapors

Effects:

  • Watery eyes
  • Impaired vision, memory, and thought
  • Rashes around the nose
  • Heart failure
  • Anxiety and irritability

Learn more at National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) - Inhalants.

5. Hallucinogens

Characteristics: Hallucinogens alter perception and can lead to mental disorders, including hallucinations and confusion. They may cause irrational behavior such as aggression and detachment from reality.

Examples: LSD (Lysergic Acid Diethylamide), Mescaline

Effects:

  • Mental disorders
  • Irrational behavior and aggression
  • Hallucinations
  • Detachment from people
  • Confusion

For more details, refer to National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) - Hallucinogens.

6. Painkillers (Opioids)

Characteristics: Opioids can cause significant physical harm, including damage to the brain, heart, and kidneys. They may also lead to unusual sleeping patterns, sweating, vomiting, and a loss of appetite.

Examples: Heroin, Morphine

Effects:

  • Damage to the brain, heart, and kidneys
  • Sleeping at unusual times
  • Sweating
  • Vomiting
  • Coughing and sniffling
  • Loss of appetite

For more information, check out Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) - Opioids.


Effects of Drug Abuse

  1. Cardiovascular Problems: Drug abuse can lead to severe heart conditions and strokes.

  2. Liver Damage: Chronic use of drugs, including alcohol, can result in liver diseases such as cirrhosis.

  3. Respiratory Issues: Inhaled drugs may cause chronic respiratory conditions, including bronchitis.

  4. Neurological Impact: Long-term drug use affects brain function, leading to cognitive deficits and behavioral changes.

  5. Mental Health Disorders: Drug abuse can exacerbate mental health issues like depression and anxiety.

  6. Addiction and Dependence: Drug abuse leads to physical and psychological dependence, with cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

  7. Cognitive Impairments: Abuse of drugs impairs cognitive functions such as decision-making and learning abilities.

  8. Relationship Strain: Drug abuse often results in relationship issues due to behavioral changes and neglect.

  9. Employment Problems: Substance abuse can lead to poor work performance and job loss.

  10. Legal and Financial Issues: The cost of drug habits can lead to financial difficulties and legal problems.

  11. Increased Risk of Harmful Behaviors: Drug abuse raises the likelihood of engaging in risky behaviors, including unsafe sex and reckless driving, as noted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).


Harmful Effects of Alcoholism

Alcoholism, or alcohol use disorder (AUD), can have severe and wide-ranging effects on an individual's physical health, mental well-being, and social life. Here’s a detailed overview of its harmful effects:

1. Physical Health Effects

  • Liver Damage: Chronic alcohol consumption can lead to liver diseases such as fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis, and cirrhosis. The American Liver Foundation provides insights into the impact of alcohol on liver health.

  • Cardiovascular Issues: Excessive drinking increases the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. Regular alcohol consumption can lead to cardiomyopathy and arrhythmias. American Heart Association offers information on the cardiovascular risks of alcohol.

  • Digestive Problems: Alcohol can cause inflammation of the stomach lining (gastritis), ulcers, and pancreatitis. It also interferes with nutrient absorption, leading to malnutrition. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) provides detailed information on alcohol’s effects on the digestive system.

  • Neurological Impact: Long-term alcohol use can lead to neurological damage, including cognitive deficits, memory loss, and increased risk of dementia. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) discusses how alcohol affects brain function.

2. Mental Health Effects

  • Mental Health Disorders: Alcoholism is linked to a higher prevalence of mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. 

  • Addiction and Dependence: Alcohol can lead to physical and psychological dependence, characterized by cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and compulsive drinking behavior. 

  • Impaired Judgment and Behavior: Alcohol impairs judgment and decision-making, leading to risky behaviors, accidents, and poor social interactions. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) provides information on the behavioral impacts of alcohol.

3. Social and Behavioral Effects

  • Relationship Strain: Alcoholism often leads to relationship problems due to behavioral changes, arguments, and neglect of family responsibilities. Partnership to End Addiction highlights the social consequences of alcohol abuse.

  • Employment Issues: Chronic alcohol use can affect job performance, leading to absenteeism, reduced productivity, and job loss. 

  • Legal Problems: Alcohol abuse can lead to legal issues such as arrests for driving under the influence (DUI) and other criminal behavior. 

  • Financial Strain: The cost of purchasing alcohol and potential legal issues can lead to significant financial problems. 

4. Increased Risk of Accidents and Injuries


Harmful Effects of Cigarette Smoking

Cigarette smoking is a leading cause of numerous health problems, affecting nearly every organ in the body. Here’s an overview of its harmful effects:

1. Respiratory System Damage

  • Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Smoking is a primary cause of COPD, which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema, leading to breathing difficulties. 

  • Lung Cancer: Smoking significantly increases the risk of lung cancer, the most common type of cancer caused by smoking. According to the American Cancer Society, smoking is responsible for approximately 85% of lung cancer cases.

  • Increased Respiratory Infections: Smokers are more susceptible to respiratory infections, such as pneumonia and bronchitis. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) discusses the increased risk of infections due to smoking.

2. Cardiovascular System Damage

  • Heart Disease: Smoking contributes to the development of coronary artery disease, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. American Heart Association highlights the cardiovascular risks associated with smoking.

  • High Blood Pressure: Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes can cause an increase in blood pressure, leading to hypertension. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute explains the relationship between smoking and high blood pressure.

  • Atherosclerosis: Smoking accelerates the build-up of plaque in the arteries, leading to atherosclerosis, which can restrict blood flow. American Heart Association provides more information on how smoking contributes to artery damage.

3. Cancer Risk

  • Various Cancers: Smoking is linked to cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, bladder, pancreas, and kidneys. National Cancer Institute offers detailed information on the cancers caused by smoking.

  • Increased Risk for Women: Women who smoke are at a higher risk of cervical cancer and may face complications with pregnancy.

4. Reproductive Health Effects

  • Reduced Fertility: Smoking can lead to reduced fertility in both men and women. American Society for Reproductive Medicine explores how smoking affects reproductive health.

  • Pregnancy Complications: Pregnant women who smoke are at increased risk of miscarriage, premature birth, and low birth weight. March of Dimes provides information on the risks of smoking during pregnancy.

5. Impact on Oral Health

  • Gum Disease: Smoking is a major risk factor for gum disease, leading to tooth loss and oral infections. American Dental Association discusses the effects of smoking on oral health.

  • Bad Breath and Stained Teeth: Smokers often suffer from bad breath and stained teeth, which can impact overall oral hygiene. American Dental Association provides further details on these issues.

6. Mental Health Impact

  • Increased Anxiety and Depression: Smoking is associated with higher rates of anxiety and depression. National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) provides insights into how smoking affects mental health.

  • Cognitive Decline: Long-term smoking is linked to cognitive decline and an increased risk of dementia. National Institute on Aging discusses the cognitive effects of smoking.

7. Weakened Immune System

  • Increased Susceptibility to Diseases: Smoking weakens the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections. National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) explores how smoking affects immune function.

 

Community Health

The health of every community depends on the way and manner in which houses and other facilities (water works, sewage works, rubbish dump, hospital) are sited.  In order to ensure very good health in the community, conscious efforts must be must be made in sitting or building houses and other important facilities.

 

Criteria for Good Housing

¨      House Siting: the best place to site a house is hillside and worst is at the bottom of valleys.  The ground for a house site should be high, dry, well drained, and airy. Too many houses in a small area should be avoided. To avoid heat in a house it is necessary to build the house in a way to prevent sun rays from entering the rooms through windows.

 

¨      Design: the house should be divided into four portions: sleeping; living and eating; the kitchen; and portion for washing and sanitary arrangements. The dining room should be near the kitchen, while sanitary (dry latrines) should be far away from the kitchen.

 

¨      Building materials: materials include wood, other plant materials, bricks and concrete. In selecting building materials, the quality looked for include durability, insulating properties and whether they will keep out rain. To ensure durable houses; thick, good and permeable loamy soil should be used. Floors can be made using concrete covered with tiles or terrazzo. The roofs should be made by materials that will keep the room cool.

 

¨      Ventilation: louver blades should be provided on the walls to allow movement of air into and out of the room while preventing the direct rays of the sun from overheating the room. A free movement of air helps to evaporate sweat and so helps to keep the body cooler. Ventilation bricks or air bricks in an outside wall also permit air to enter into a room and circulate.

 

Sources of Water and Mode of Water Contamination

Anything which contaminates water is called a contaminant or pollutant. Water can be contaminated or polluted by organic materials (such as: animal carcasses, feces, food waste, leaves, wood, petrol, grease) and inorganic materials (such as: scrap metal, sand, chemicals).

 

In the 1950s and 1960s, many Japanese in Miriamata Bay suffered mental disorder, paralysis and death due to mercury poisoning. They ate fish contaminated with mercury in waste discharge from a factory on the shore. It is therefore very important that water supply to town or community be kept clean and free of germs and chemicals.

 

Rainwater

Rain water is the primary source of water. It is the purest form of natural water. However, there may be a lot of dirt, feces from bird and rubbish on the roof. Also, the wind can carry germs in dust blown onto the roof. When it rains the dirt and rubbish are washed into the storage tank, along with the germs.

 

Measures to Avoid Rainwater Contamination

Ø  Install a first flush diverter. This prevents the first flush of water, which may have contaminants from the roof, from entering the tank

Ø  Keep the roof and roof gutters clean.

Ø  Keep a lid on the water tank

Ø  Check for and repair any leaks

Ø  Regularly clean walls or floor of the tank

 

Springs and Streams

Springs and streams are sources of water to some villages and communities. Spring water is usually safe to drink. However, water from streams and rivers is not often safe to drink without first being treated. There are several ways in which rivers, lakes and streams can become contaminated with germs or chemicals:

¨      Rubbish may wash into the river from a nearby dump

¨      Sewage and feces may be deposited directly into the river by people or other animals

¨      Feces deposited near the river may be washed into it by rain

¨      Chemicals or poisons sprayed onto land near the river may be washed into the water

 

Measures to Avoid River and Stream Contamination

o   Avoid discharging effluent into rivers and streams

o   There should be little or no building near the water supply source

o   Make sure people do not use the area around the water supply source for recreational purposes, such as playing sport and having picnics

 

Boreholes or Wells

Boreholes can become contaminated underground. This happen if a bore hole latrine is built too close to the water source, or a faulty effluent disposal system allows disease-causing germs to soak down into the groundwater.

 

Measures to Avoid Borehole Contamination

Ø  Placed covers over bore heads

Ø  The bore head area is protected from flooding as this can carry disease-causing germs into the bore. The bore head is usually protected by raising it above ground level

Ø  Septic tanks/leach drains and effluent disposal are site away from the bore.

Ø  It is essential to test the water periodically for chemical and bacterial pollution

 

Purification of Water for small scale supply

It is very important to treat water likely to be contaminated before using. This is achieved by a number of ways:

o   By Boiling: boiling water for 5 minutes is an effective way of killing germs. Obviously, this method would be only useful for small quantities of water.

o   Filtration: When water is run through fine sand, the filtration process removes suspended solids.

o   Chlorine gas: Chlorine is added to drinking water to sterilize it. The chlorine kills microbes - including microbes that cause potentially-fatal diseases such as typhoid, cholera and dysentery.

 

Purification of Town Water Supply or Water Treatment

Town water supplies go through some purification and treatment processes before it is made available for use by the public.

Water treatment can be defined as any procedure or method used to alter the chemical composition or natural “behaviour” of a water supply. Water supplies are classified as either surface water or groundwater. The majority of public or municipal water comes from surface water such as rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. The majority of private water supplies comes from groundwater pumped from wells.

Water treatment methods and steps taken to meet local, state or national, standards include;

Ø  Coagulation, Flocculation, and sedimentation - these involve mixing of chemicals known as coagulants (e.g., alum) to make the solid particles in the water clump together (coagulation) to form larger groups of particles known as floc (flocculation). The floc floats down by gravity and settle out of the water in large tanks (sedimentation).

Ø  Filtration: The water flows by gravity through filters. There are different types of filters which may be employed. A type is the tank-type pressure filter which consist of: oxidizing filters; activated carbon filters; and multi-media filters.

Ø  Disinfection or Sterilization: Chlorine is added to drinking water to sterilize it. The chlorine kills microbes that cause fatal diseases such as typhoid, cholera and dysentery. Addition of chlorine to water is known as chlorination.

Ø  Fluoridation: Drinking water with the mineral, fluoride, present strengthen the enamel of teeth. Natural water sources already have some concentration of fluoride present in low amount, so addition fluoride, raise the level to the required amount.

Ø  Lime Treatment (Ca(OH)2): The addition of lime reduces the level of calcium and magnesium in the water, and is referred to as “lime softening”. The purpose of lime softening is to remove hardness, and then clarify the water and improve its taste.

Ø  pH Adjustment: pH of municipal water may be adjusted to an approximately 7.5 to 8.0 to prevent corrosion of water pipes, particularly to prevent dissolution of lead into the water supply.

 

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