Full Answer Section

• Genetic Predisposition: Arab Americans may have a higher genetic predisposition to certain conditions like type 2 diabetes and specific lipid disorders that increase the risk of cardiovascular disease (El-Kebbi & Bidwell, 2015). Family history of these conditions would be a significant person-dependent risk factor.
• Age and Gender: As with any population, the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes increases with age. Gender also plays a role, with variations in risk profiles at different life stages.
• Health Behaviors: Individual choices such as dietary patterns (e.g., high intake of saturated fats and sweets), physical activity levels (sedentary lifestyles), smoking habits, and stress management techniques are significant person-dependent factors influencing the development and management of these chronic diseases.

Environmental-dependent factors, on the other hand, are external influences that can impact an individual’s health. Examples include:

• Cultural Dietary Norms: Traditional Arab-American cuisine, while rich and flavorful, may include dishes high in saturated fats, refined carbohydrates, and added sugars. Understanding these cultural dietary norms is crucial in providing culturally sensitive nutritional guidance (Hwalla et al., 2011).
• Socioeconomic Status: Economic factors can significantly influence access to healthy foods, safe environments for physical activity, and healthcare resources. Low socioeconomic status can limit choices and increase stress, indirectly contributing to poor health outcomes.
• Social Support Networks: The strength and quality of family and community support can impact health behaviors and adherence to health recommendations. Strong social networks can be a protective factor, while isolation can pose a barrier to healthy living.

1. Define and describe the primary goals of screening.

The primary goals of screening in healthcare are to identify individuals who are at risk for or are in the early, often asymptomatic, stages of a disease or condition within a defined population. It aims to detect these conditions before they manifest clinically or become more severe, thereby enabling earlier intervention and potentially improving health outcomes, reducing morbidity and mortality, and sometimes decreasing healthcare costs associated with advanced disease. Screening is not diagnostic; rather, it identifies individuals who require further investigation to confirm or rule out the suspected condition. Key characteristics of effective screening programs include the availability of a suitable test, a significant health problem, an understanding of the natural history of the disease, the existence of an effective treatment, and the feasibility and acceptability of the program within the target population.

2. Discuss your thoughts on the relationship between economics and nutrition. How would you advise people of low socioeconomic status to eat healthy on a budget? How would you respond to patients whose financial restraints limit their access to food?

Economics and nutrition are inextricably linked. Socioeconomic status significantly influences an individual’s ability to access and afford nutritious foods. Healthy foods like fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can often be more expensive than processed, energy-dense, and nutrient-poor options. Limited financial resources can lead to reliance on cheaper, less healthy foods, increasing the risk of malnutrition, obesity, and chronic diseases. Food insecurity, a direct consequence of economic hardship,