MODULE 5 REVIEWER
Community and Public Health for Medical Laboratory Science
Promoting and Protecting the Health of Vulnerable Populations
I. Understanding Vulnerability
A. Definition of Vulnerability
The term "vulnerable" comes from the Latin word meaning wound. Vulnerable
populations are groups at higher risk of poor health outcomes, including higher
mortality, lower healthcare access, and overall poor quality of life.
B. Causes of Vulnerability
✔ Developmental problems
✔ Personal incapacities (e.g., disabilities, mental illness)
✔ Disadvantaged social status (e.g., poverty, minority groups)
✔ Poor support systems and networks
✔ Harsh environments and degraded neighborhoods
These factors can overlap and worsen health disparities over a lifetime.
II. Community Health and Minorities
A. Who Are the Minorities?
A population that comprises less than 50% of the total population. They often experience
limited access to healthcare, discrimination, and socio-economic disadvantages.
B. Ethnicity vs. Race
Term Definition
Ethnicity Cultural identity (language, traditions,
beliefs, and heritage)
Race Physical traits categorized due to historical,
social, and political reasons
III. Indigenous Communities in the Philippines
The Philippines has 14–17 million Indigenous Peoples (IPs), belonging to 110
ethnolinguistic groups. Most live in Northern Luzon (Cordillera, 33%) and Mindanao (61%).
A. Major Indigenous Groups & Their Challenges
Group Location Threats to Health
Igorot Northern Luzon Land dispossession,
discrimination, cultural
commercialization
Aeta Luzon (Zambales, Tarlac, Displacement, poverty,
Pampanga) marginalization
Lumad Mindanao Land grabbing,
militarization, human rights
violations
B. Traditional Healing Practices
Some indigenous groups still use traditional healing methods, such as:
✔ 'Abat' and 'Senga' (Kalinga): Healing rituals involving prayers, animal sacrifice, and
community involvement.
✔ Aeta Herbal Medicine: Use of medicinal plants and spiritual rituals for treatment.
IV. Health Disparities in Indigenous Communities
Compared to the general population, indigenous people have:
✔ Higher rates of chronic illnesses (diabetes, heart disease, cancer)
✔ Higher infant mortality rates
✔ Limited healthcare facilities in rural areas
✔ Poor nutrition & sanitation
✔ Lack of mental health support
V. Community Mental Health
Mental health is the ability to function well in daily life, manage stress, and build
relationships. Mental illness includes disorders affecting thoughts, emotions, or behaviors.
Common Mental Disorders:
✔ Depression
✔ Anxiety Disorders
✔ Schizophrenia
✔ Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
VI. Treatment & Rehabilitation
Treatment Approach Description
Psychopharmacology Use of medication to treat mental disorders
Psychotherapy Talk therapy (individual, group, cognitive-
behavioral therapy)
Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) Used for severe depression/schizophrenia
Technology-based therapy Online counseling, mobile apps
Self-help groups Community support groups for mental
illness
Psychiatric Rehabilitation Training and support for daily life and
employment
VII. Health Program Planning & Implementation
Steps to create a health program:
✔ Identify the problem (e.g., high mental illness rates)
✔ Develop SMART objectives (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound)
✔ Plan interventions (Education campaigns, free check-ups)
✔ Implement the program
✔ Evaluate results & improve
Key Takeaways
✔ Health is a fundamental human right.
✔ Indigenous & minority groups experience major health disparities.
✔ Mental health needs to be prioritized alongside physical health.
✔ Community programs & policies can improve health equity.