Healthcare
Access to and management of healthcare is essential for maintaining physical and mental health over the long term. The Healthcare Measure in the Giji Index evaluates how effectively respondents utilize healthcare services and manage their personal health needs.
This measure uses scientifically supported indicators such as the frequency of medical check-ups, adherence to prescribed treatments, and proactive health management strategies. By assessing respondents' healthcare habits and access, the Healthcare Measure provides insights into their ability to manage health risks and maintain overall well-being through regular healthcare engagement.
Sunscreen
Regular use of sunscreen is critical for protecting the skin from harmful UV rays, which can lead to skin cancer and premature aging. Dermatologists recommend daily application of sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
Moisturiser
Daily use of moisturiser helps maintain the skin's hydration and barrier function, which are essential for preventing dryness, irritation, and skin conditions such as eczema. Moisturizing after bathing and before exposure to dry environments can improve skin health and appearance.
Alcohol Consumption
It is widely known that consuming alcohol has been shown to increase the risk of certain cancers (breast, liver, and throat cancers), cardiovascular disease, liver damage, and digestive problems. The relationship between alcohol and these diseases is strong and linear.
More controversial, however, is whether there is a 'safe' amount of alcohol consumption. A 2018 study from Harvard School of Public Health found that people who consumed 1 drink per week had a 0.5% increased risk of developing one of 23 alcohol-related health problems, while those who had 5 drinks per day increased their risk by 37%. However other studies have been done that are more equivocal about the negative effects of small amounts of alcohol.
The Giji Holistic Index takes the position that less-is-better, and zero consumption is ideal.
Substance Use
An individual taking recreational drugs is engaged in a similar betting strategy to a gambler at a casino: you might come away with individual wins, but in the end the house always wins. Aside from niche psychiatric clinical cases, using recreational drugs of any kind is, at minimum, non-beneficial to personal wellbeing. The personality traits (as measured on the 'Big Five' scale) of high neuroticism, low agreeableness, and low conscientiousness are consistently associated with drug use (Source: Slutske and colleagues 2021). Coincidentally, these traits are also associated with poor self-control, likelihood of infidelity in relationships, and lower life satisfaction.
This indicator takes a less-is-better grading method.
Dental Hygiene
Be honest: how often do you brush your teeth? Brushing your teeth twice a day is essential for maintaining oral health, preventing tooth decay, and reducing the risk of gum disease. Consistent brushing, combined with flossing, removes plaque buildup and helps maintain a healthy smile.
Dental Maintenance
Regular visits to the dentist, ideally every six months, are critical for maintaining oral health. Routine check-ups help prevent cavities, detect early signs of gum disease, and maintain overall dental hygiene. Dental visits also provide an opportunity for professional cleaning and early intervention for any emerging issues.
While not specifically linked with life satisfaction, the Index uses dental check-ups as a proxy for propensity to seek professional help when necessary.
