psychological factors in heart disease.
The major causes of morbidity (illness) and mortality (death) have changed in the last century. In the early 1900s, viruses and bacteria were the leading causes of death. Medical advances, such as antibiotics, vaccinations, and improvements in sanitation have helped to stamp out these causes. Presently, leading causes of death include heart disease (related to smoking, eating, not exercising, being overweight, drinking too much), cancer, motor vehicle accidents, and suicide. What do these causes all have in common? What does it mean for the overall status of our nations health?
Psychology is becoming increasingly important in overall health care. In particular, the field is health psychology is emerging as an important area of the health care system.
In your opinion, in what ways is psychology important in medical health? What factors are to be considered? What sort of treatment interventions do you believe will start to become mainstream in physical and integrative health?