We here, at the Force for Health® Network truly believes that EVERYBODY can be a Force for Health for themselves, their families and their communities, but also realize that we do not all play on a level playing field, when it comes to access, resources and opportunities. We also believe that population health is a TEAM SPORT and that EVERYBODY must play their roles, especially community-based leaders, to address the issues collaboratively and effectively, to best protect the safety and sustainabilities of the communities they live in because not doing so will lead to more uninformed and disconnect citizens, which can be both expensive and harmful to everybody.

To illustrate this point, here 10 reasons why uninformed and disconnected citizens are both expensive and harmful to themselves and their communities. Do you agree or disagree?

Poor health outcomes: When individuals are uninformed and disconnected from their health, they are more likely to engage in behaviors that lead to poor health outcomes such as unhealthy eating, physical inactivity, and substance abuse.

Increased healthcare costs: Uninformed and disconnected citizens are more likely to engage in risky health behaviors, leading to higher healthcare costs for themselves and their families.

Chronic diseases: Individuals who are disconnected from their health are more likely to develop chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer, which can lead to a decrease in quality of life and an increase in healthcare costs.

Reduced productivity: Poor health can lead to reduced productivity, missed workdays, and decreased earning potential, all of which can have a negative impact on an individual’s financial stability and their family’s well-being.

Mental health issues: Uninformed and disconnected citizens are more likely to experience mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, which can have a negative impact on their overall health and well-being.

Social isolation: When individuals are disconnected from their health and their communities, they are more likely to experience social isolation, which can lead to further mental and physical health issues.

Higher crime rates: Communities with a large number of disconnected citizens are more likely to have higher crime rates, which can have a negative impact on the safety and well-being of families.

Lower life expectancy: Poor health outcomes and chronic diseases can lead to a lower life expectancy, which can have a devastating impact on families and communities.

Reduced community engagement: Uninformed and disconnected citizens are less likely to engage in their communities, leading to a lack of social cohesion and decreased support systems for families.

Inequitable access to healthcare: Uninformed and disconnected citizens may have reduced access to healthcare resources and information, leading to health disparities and inequities in healthcare outcomes.

In conclusion, being uninformed and disconnected from one’s health can have far-reaching consequences for individuals, families, and communities. It is essential that individuals prioritize their health and engage in their communities to ensure the best possible health outcomes for themselves and those around them. This is stepping up and playing your role. This is being a Force for Health.