HEALTH CULTURE IN ISLAMABAD: NAVIGATING SOCIO-ECONOMIC CHALLENGES, HEALTHCARE ACCESSIBILITY, AND PUBLIC HEALTH INITIATIVES

Abstract

The health culture in Islamabad, Pakistan, reflects a dynamic interplay of socio-economic factors, healthcare accessibility, traditional and modern medical practices, and public health initiatives. This paper explores key dimensions of Islamabad's health landscape, focusing on maternal and child health, the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, mental health challenges, inappropriate prescribing practices, and environmental health hazards. Despite improvements in healthcare, maternal and postnatal care remains underutilized, while mobile health interventions show promise in improving child health practices in rural areas. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of effective public health strategies, highlighting the need for mental health support, particularly among students. Additionally, concerns about inappropriate medication prescribing and the impact of air pollution and heavy metals on public health have surfaced. Addressing these issues requires a multi-sectoral approach, involving policymakers, healthcare providers, and the community, to build a resilient healthcare system in Islamabad.