Assignment 1: Discussion—Regulating Harmful Commercial Activities

Public health economists are at the forefront in optimizing limited resources to advance health outcomes. They offer assistance to local, state, and federal governments and organizations by conducting economic research such as the evaluations of burden of disease, cost effectiveness, and effectiveness of interventions to prevent or treat specific diseases. This helps them compare the costs of various interventions and make decisions about the effective and efficient use of resources.

Considering this, respond to the following:

• Do you believe we should strive for a well-regulated society that deters harmful commercial activities in order to keep healthcare costs down? Why or why not?
• How should it be determined which commercial activities are harmful and whether they have an economic impact?

Give examples and reasons in support of your responses.

Respond to the question using the lessons and vocabulary found in the readings. Support your answers with examples and research. Your responses should clarify your understanding of the topic. They should be your own, original, and free from plagiarism. Follow the APA format for writing style, spelling and grammar, and citation of sources.