Poor Health Habits Among The United States Should Spend...

fourths of that spent directed at treating chronic diseases in 2006 (Goetzel, 2009). Poor health habits are a contributing factor to chronic diseases, which could be decreased if health habits are improved. Overall, the United States should spend more money on preventative care that would decrease chronic diseases and illnesses. Therefore, the cost of treating chronic illnesses would decrease. As important as managing national spending and funding is, the most important factor is the overall health of Americans. Providing preventative care that varies between racial and ethnic groups does not create a healthier society, but a society with more chronic illness and higher medical bills for its citizens. The average cost of treating cancer†¦show more content†¦Ã¢â‚¬Å"In comparison, a single hospitalization due to diabetes, pneumonia or anemia is estimated to cost over $7,000, $10,000 and $20,000, respectively, for the same year† (American Academy of Pediatrics, 2011). Ove rall, preventative services are a more cost effective lifestyle choice. Historical Data with Explanation of the Problem In America, demographics show that the world is changing. According to a 2000 Census data, 25 percent of the United States population is composed of minority ethnic groups, which has continually increased over the years (Egede, 2006). As the United States continues to become more diverse there will be an increased need to establish validity and reliability across racial, ethnic, and cultural groups (Egede, 2006). Many racial and ethnic groups are continually impacted by the burden of disease, due to socioeconomic status, health between the population, access to quality health care, and environmental factors (Egede, 2006). The Institute of Medicine (IOM) on Unequal Treatment states that â€Å"a large majority of research shows that racial and ethnic minorities experience a lower quality of health services, and are less likely to receive routine medical procedures† (Egede, 2006). Minorities may be less likely to receive the preven tative care they need due to a poor relationship with their