Task 1– covers LO 1. Essay 1500 words SCENARIO 1 A study conducted by the National Network of Smoking Prevention and Poverty found that cigarettes served as a tool for those of low socioeconomic status to cope with boredom, relieve stress and as a companion to alcohol and caffeine. Cigarettes served as a loyal “friend” – a theme recognizable from cigarette advertising. Other results of the studies conducted on this population included: Store promotions served as major incentives, and there is high brand loyalty among this population. Individuals did not relate smoking to deadly illnesses, or connect smoking to health risks. Many cited secondhand smoke as more harmful than smoking. Raising cigarette costs do not serve as a deterrent, instead forcing individuals in this segment to merely “buy down” by buying generic brands or rolling their own cigarettes. Unsuccessful quitting attempts and relapses are caused by stress, friends and family and environmental cues. Lack of inquiry by providers and little advice or support by doctors to quit was reported. Some did not admit to smoking for fear of being “scolded.” Lack of self-efficacy – individuals did not have a belief in their own power to quit. There are other factors unique to this community that prohibit prevention. Education materials may not be culturally or linguistically appropriate for this segment, and often members of this population live in communities where tobacco advertising is more prominent. Those who work in manufacturing, construction, or transportation are more likely to be exposed to second hand smoke at work. Also, quitting occurs less often in this segment, and when individuals do quit they are more likely to relapse, a fact not helped by the fact that smoking may be considered the norm among family and peers. And, for many members of this population, smoking simply meets a need that cannot be met with something else. As many as 700,000 people are homeless on any given night. The homeless population is heavily represented by the mentally ill, over half have drug or alcohol dependency, and a disproportionate amount of homeless are ethnic minorities. Homelessness makes people exceedingly susceptible to smoking. Studies suggest that between 70 – 99% of homeless adults smoke. The homeless experience high stress, and feel vulnerable, overwhelmed and helpless. Also, mental illness and chemical dependency can increase susceptibility to marketing efforts that suggest that tobacco can help them cope. Hand-rolled cigarettes without filters, using recycled tobacco from butts, and group smoking can increase the dangers of each cigarette smoked, further endangering the health of this vulnerable population. The hazardous consequences of these behaviours can be seen in the dramatic increase in throat and mouth cancer of homeless people. In this task, you will demonstrate your understanding of LO1 and explain each of the point below, paying a specific attention to the link between homelessness and smoking and the effect on individual health. Task 1 HNHS Health Promotion Assignment Brief 7 Use the scenario and your own explanation to cover LO1 1.1 Explain the effects of socioeconomic influences on health stated in the above scenario. 1.2 Assess the relevance of government sources in reporting on inequalities in health. (covers M1, D1) 1.3 Discuss reasons for barriers to accessing Healthcare Task 1 has the opportunity to achieve M1 & D1 with assessment criteria AC 1.2 The essay needs to be based on baseline information in order to identify needs, socioeconomic factors influencing health, inequalities, and barriers to accessing health as discussed above.