ABSTRACT
This chapter explains the role of chronic diseases in assessing quality of life. It explores the impact of each of health determinants on the health status of people in countries around the world. The chapter pays particular attention to changes in the health outcomes of people in economically prosperous nations, referred to by the World Health Organization as developed countries, versus those in less economically advantaged nations, or developing countries. It discusses the World Health Organization changed the terminology used to refer to more versus less prosperous nations. The chapter examines the effects of individual health outcomes on the family, community, society, and country. It describes the international organizations' roles in addressing the specific health promotion and health maintenance needs of the region. Preventable illnesses are of special interest to health psychologists because they suggest an opportunity to improve health outcomes through changes in individual behaviors or through improving access to health care.
