Environmental influences

Well my second research assignment is almost done. Its all about how important it is for dental hygienists to promote oral hygiene towards a population perspective vs following the individualistic behavioral approach. I never realized how important the social determinants of health are to our communities! Looking from a population perspective, it shows that people aren't completely accountable for their decisions. someone who grew up in a wealthy home with positive people around them have a significantly higher chance of not only becoming successful, but also living healthier life than one who grew up in a poor environment. There are studies done to prove this!
I am living in Vancouver right now part time. All of it is soo beautiful, except one road... Hastings street. They have so many homeless people living around that area it breaks my heart, not at first I mind you, I thought "well, that sucks for them, but they made the choice." This is not 100% true! I was fortunate enough to have a loving mother that supported everything I have ever done, and guided me back if I started running off a positive path. There are quite a few people out there with parents that constantly told their children they are dumb, and will not mount to anything. These are the now adults with low self esteem issues which believe it or not makes up their social economic status, health records, and social networks. Sure some people can get out of a rut, and find help, but being in that situation... it is harder to find help than you think... The programs out here are not the best unfortunately.
Check out: http://mainsite.lemongrassmedia.net/pop-health-the-new-agenda/
Its all about the social determinants of health Vancouver specifically.

Oh, by the way, there are some homeless out there that choose to live on the street. That is fine too! There are also con artists out there. I was watching the news the other day and in some areas people dress up as pan handlers and make more money begging than working an average paying job. Interesting...

I'll post my essay when I'm finished.