Social Ecological Model of Health

Social Ecological Model of Health

The Social Ecological Model (referred to as SEM) is a theory -based approach which is multifaceted and examines the interactive effects of personal and environmental factors. Personal and environmental factors not only determine behaviours but also identifies “behavioral and organization leverage points and intermediaries” within organizations to promote health (UNICEF, n.d., p.1). There are 5 “hierarchical” levels within this model: individual, interpersonal, community, organizational and policy/enabling environment (UNICEF, n.d., p. 1). Public health use interventions at each level simultaneously to provide effective approaches to disease prevention and control (UNICEF, n.d., p.1).

As a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) there are many chronic diseases that my colleagues and I encountered frequently. One such chronic disease is Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, commonly known as COPD. COPD is described as a “chronic inflammatory lung disease that causes obstructed airflow from the lungs” (Mayo Clinic, 2017, para 1). Tobacco smoking is the main cause of COPD in developed countries. In developing countries, COPD can be caused by exposure to fumes from burning fuels to heat and cook in a poorly ventilated home (Mayo Clinic, 2017, para 8). The greatest risk factor is exposure to tobacco smoke (cigarette, pipe, marijuana). Even large amount of second- hand smoke puts and individual at risk for developing COPD (Mayo Clinic, 2017, para 17).

At the center of this model is the individual which is born with a fixed set of genes (Bhebhe, 2018, p.3). They have a certain knowledge, have their own attitudes and acquire behaviours. Their own chose to smoke or not smoke is reflected in this level. The next level is interpersonal. This reflects on the influence that families, friends, and social networks have on the individual (Bhebhe, 2018, p.3). This level may show us why the individual smokes or not smokes dependent on the dynamics of the group. If members of the group choose to smoke, the individual may be more compelled to participate to feel they belong. The third level centers around the community. This level explores the relationship socially with schools, workplaces, and neighborhoods (Bhebhe, 2018, p. 3). Research has shown that individuals with lower incomes have a higher risk of developing COPD (Bhebhe, 2018, p. 4). Your employment defines your workplace as well as your home. Literature has shown that lower income individuals have a higher risk of developing COPD (Bhebhe, 2018, p.4). The fourth level is organizational of social institutions (UNICEF, n.d., p.2). I see this as availability of resources to the individual. This could be any smoking cessation programs available as well as medications or alternatives (nicotine gums and sprays). The final level is the policy/enabling environment (UNICEF, n.d., p.2). This level includes laws and policies governing the sale of cigarettes to the location someone can smoke. We have seen laws that prohibit the sale of cigarettes to minors and smoking in public places such as restaurants and malls.

The Social Ecological Model address many of the factors that influence an individual to be a smoker or a non-smoker. I believe this model address the individual and their environment that lead to choosing which option to take. By knowing each of the 5 levels, we as health professionals can assist with a suitable smoking cessation program for an individual that will fit their personal environment.

References.

Bhebhe, S. (2018, March 1). Social ecological model of health and its application to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)- first draft. [Blog post]. Retrieved from https://siphathokuhlebhebhe.wordpress.com/2018/03/01/social-ecological-model-of -health-and -its-application-to-chronic-obstructive-pulmonary-disease.copd-firstdraft

Mayo Clinic (2017). Patient care and health information: Disease & Conditions. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/copd/symptoms-causes/sys-20353679

UNICEF (n.d.). Social ecological model (SEM), Communication for development (C4D)?, Retrieved from https://www.unicef.org/cbsc/files/Module_1_SEM-C4D.docx