Societal Failures Research Articles

Evolution of drug-resistant tuberculosis: a tale of two species.

The history of the disease tuberculosis is briefly discussed. Now human societal failures have potentiated the evolution of drug-resistant strains of the tubercle bacillus in the United States and around the world. Until recently, this evolutionary change largely posed a threat to the health and survival of the individual in whom inadequate therapy promoted the drug resistance. However, the human immunodeficiency virus epidemic threatens to promote wholesale transmission of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis with the potential for immense morbidity and mortality. Reinforced treatment and control programs for tuberculosis are vital.

Prevention/promotion in America: still spitting on the sidewalk.

Using a metaphor from disease prevention and health promotion efforts from the early 1990s, prevention and promotion efforts of the late 1900s are examined. Primary analyses are made on societal failures to grapple effectively with the major health problems associated with smoking, motor vehicles, and guns. Critical examples are described where American society and decision-makers lack commitment to prevention and promotion ideals and, in these and other situations, have actively encouraged the growth of health problems. The conclusion is drawn that the American society has acquiesced to let the major killers and disablers of children and adults to continue unabated. A stronger commitment to promotion and prevention is encouraged.