Understanding the WHO Guideline on Self-Care

Self-care is an important concept in the health and well-being of individuals, families, and communities. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), self-care is the capacity of individuals, families, and communities to promote health, prevent diseases, maintain health, and cope with illness and disability with or without the support of a health worker. To help individuals, communities, and countries access quality health services and self-care interventions, the WHO has developed a Global Values and Preferences Survey (GVP). This survey serves as the basis for the WHO guidance on self-care interventions for health and well-being.

What is the Global Values and Preferences Survey?

The Global Values and Preferences Survey (GVP) is a key document that provides evidence-based policy guidance to help individuals, communities, and countries access quality health services and self-care interventions. The survey was conducted by the WHO in order to develop a people-centered approach to health care. The survey included questions about people's values and preferences regarding health care services, self-care interventions, and primary health care strategies.

What is the Purpose of the WHO Guideline on Self-Care?

The purpose of the WHO guideline on self-care is to provide evidence-based policy guidance that helps individuals, communities, and countries access quality health services and self-care interventions.

The guideline is based on primary health care strategies, comprehensive packages of essential services, and a people-centered approach. The guideline also provides information on how to promote self-care in different settings, such as in schools, workplaces, and communities.

How Can Self-Care Interventions Improve Health Outcomes?

Self-care interventions can improve health outcomes by providing individuals with the knowledge and skills they need to take better care of their own health. Self-care interventions can also help individuals manage chronic conditions more effectively.

For example, self-care interventions can help individuals with diabetes better manage their blood sugar levels or help individuals with asthma better manage their symptoms. Self-care interventions can also help individuals reduce their risk of developing certain diseases or conditions by promoting healthy behaviors such as exercising regularly or eating a balanced diet.

Conclusion

The WHO guideline on self-care provides evidence-based policy guidance that helps individuals, communities, and countries access quality health services and self-care interventions. Self-care interventions can improve health outcomes by providing individuals with the knowledge and skills they need to take better care of their own health.

By following the WHO guideline on self-care, individuals can reduce their risk of developing certain diseases or conditions by promoting healthy behaviors such as exercising regularly or eating a balanced diet.