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Education improves health
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American schools are allowed to fail. In addition to the many societal problems typically associated with a lack of formal education, failing schools contribute to poor health among students. The health risk Implications of swine flu and other 21st Century illnesses are life changing. Serious illness can sometimes force physical limitations that dramatically alter one's future or ability to cope with life's daily challenges. Education is a life changing experience. When knowledge of choice is available, it is easier to make informed decisions that are most beneficial to the decision maker and those affected by that decision.
It is not surprising that college graduates tend to enjoy healthier lifestyles and longer life expectancy than those who have not completed college or high school. A recent publication of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, "Education Matters for Health" provides a thorough analysis of links between education and health. The report states, "...most effective strategies for reducing health disparities in this country could be to take steps to close the gaps in educational attainment." As the health care debate continues, costs are still skyrocketing; the number of uninsured is increasing as people without jobs lose their employer-sponsored insurance; and obesity is an ongoing major problem in every age group. Obesity might be substantially reduced if the education system was more effective for more students. Today, with the erosion of the middle class due to the current recession, American schools, too, are eroding. Improving education is a challenge for administrators with limited vision and who are stuck in the 20th Century. Such administrators put the health of students at risk, and they stifle effective learning opportunities.
It is no longer business as usual. Change that is not only responsive but also courageous must sweep through the education system. Students and their families require positive support for balancing their lives so that choices are available to help relieve stress and cope with everyday living. Stressing out, for example, due to a poor decision often has a lot to do with how much information was available to make the decision. Education is key. Stress can trigger the body to wear down the immune system leading to serious chronic illnesses. Gaining a better understanding of how to deal with stress improves one's chances for a healthy and productive life.
It is not just health education that is needed. The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) and other major schools districts must support education that contributes to development of the well-rounded whole person. Instructional support must be for informative for students in making better choices in life, in addition to whether or not to eat chile-cheese fries instead of the apple.
