The topic of public health initiatives in preventing lifestyle diseases is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on recent trends and historical data from various IELTS preparation websites, this subject has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being a popular choice for future tests. Given its relevance to global health concerns, let’s explore this topic through sample essays tailored for different band scores.
Analyzing the Task
Let’s focus on a common question type related to this theme:
Some people believe that governments should be responsible for reducing the incidence of lifestyle diseases such as obesity and type 2 diabetes through public health initiatives. Others think individuals should take responsibility for their own health choices. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the role of governments in reducing lifestyle diseases through public health initiatives
- Explore the view that individuals are responsible for their health choices
- Provide a personal opinion on the matter
Sample Essays
Band 8-9 Essay
Here’s a high-scoring sample essay:
In recent years, the prevalence of lifestyle diseases such as obesity and type 2 diabetes has reached alarming levels in many countries. While some argue that governments should take the lead in combating these health issues through public initiatives, others maintain that individuals should be accountable for their own well-being. In my opinion, a collaborative approach involving both governmental intervention and personal responsibility is the most effective strategy.
Proponents of government-led initiatives argue that public health campaigns can have a significant impact on reducing lifestyle diseases. They contend that governments have the resources and authority to implement wide-reaching programs such as mandatory nutrition labeling, restrictions on junk food advertising, and the promotion of physical activity in schools and workplaces. For instance, the successful implementation of sugar taxes in countries like Mexico has led to a noticeable decrease in the consumption of sugary beverages, potentially contributing to lower obesity rates. Moreover, government-funded education programs can raise awareness about the risks associated with poor diet and sedentary lifestyles, empowering citizens to make informed choices.
On the other hand, those who advocate for individual responsibility argue that personal health choices ultimately lie with the individual. They believe that people should have the freedom to make their own decisions regarding diet, exercise, and overall lifestyle without excessive governmental interference. This perspective emphasizes the importance of self-discipline and personal accountability in maintaining good health. Supporters of this view might point out that even with extensive public health initiatives, the final decision to adopt a healthy lifestyle rests with the individual.
In my view, the most effective approach to tackling lifestyle diseases involves a combination of government intervention and personal responsibility. While governments can create an environment conducive to healthy living through policies and education, individuals must be willing to embrace these opportunities and make positive changes in their lives. For example, a government might invest in creating more public parks and cycling lanes, but it is up to individuals to utilize these facilities for their physical well-being. Similarly, nutritional information mandated by the government is only useful if people actively choose to read and apply this knowledge to their food choices.
In conclusion, the prevention of lifestyle diseases requires a multi-faceted approach. Governments play a crucial role in shaping public health policies and creating supportive environments, but the ultimate success of these initiatives depends on individuals taking responsibility for their health choices. By fostering a culture of health awareness and personal accountability, supported by thoughtful government interventions, societies can more effectively combat the rising tide of lifestyle-related health issues.
(Word count: 398)
Public health initiatives against lifestyle diseases
Band 6-7 Essay
Here’s a mid-range sample essay:
Nowadays, lifestyle diseases like obesity and diabetes are becoming more common. Some people think governments should use public health programs to reduce these problems, while others believe individuals should be responsible for their own health. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
On one hand, governments can play an important role in preventing lifestyle diseases. They have the power to create laws and run campaigns that can help people be healthier. For example, they can put taxes on unhealthy foods or make rules about what kinds of food can be sold in schools. Governments can also start programs to teach people about healthy eating and exercise. These actions can reach many people and might help reduce the number of people getting sick from lifestyle diseases.
On the other hand, some people think that individuals should take care of their own health. They believe that everyone has the right to choose what they eat and how they live. It’s true that in the end, it’s up to each person to decide if they want to eat healthy food or exercise regularly. Even if the government tries to help, people still need to make their own choices about their health.
In my opinion, both the government and individuals have important parts to play in preventing lifestyle diseases. Governments can create a good environment for healthy living by making laws and providing information. However, people also need to take responsibility for their own health by making good choices every day. I think the best solution is for governments and individuals to work together. For instance, if the government builds more parks and sports centers, people should use them to stay active.
To conclude, while governments can help prevent lifestyle diseases through public health initiatives, individuals also need to take responsibility for their own health. A combination of government support and personal effort is the best way to tackle this problem.
(Word count: 309)
Band 5-6 Essay
Here’s a lower-scoring sample essay:
These days, many people have health problems like being too fat or having diabetes. Some think the government should help solve this problem. Others say people should take care of their own health. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.
Governments can do things to help people be healthier. They can make rules about food in schools. They can also tell people about eating good food and doing exercise. This might help people not get sick. For example, the government can put pictures on cigarettes to show they are bad. This helps some people stop smoking.
But some people think everyone should decide about their own health. They say it’s not the government’s job to tell people what to eat or do. People should learn about health and make their own choices. If someone wants to eat unhealthy food, it’s their choice.
I think both the government and people are important for good health. The government can give information and make some rules. But people need to listen and make good choices too. If the government says exercise is good, people still need to actually do the exercise.
In conclusion, I believe the government and people should work together to stop health problems. The government can help, but people need to take care of themselves too.
(Word count: 209)
Explaining the Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates excellent command of the English language and task achievement:
- Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a well-developed response with relevant, extended, and supported ideas.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
- Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A wide range of structures is used with full flexibility and accuracy.
Band 6-7 Essay Analysis
This essay shows a generally effective command of the language despite some inaccuracies:
- Task Response: All parts of the task are addressed, though some parts may be more fully covered than others.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Information and ideas are arranged coherently, and there is a clear overall progression.
- Lexical Resource: An adequate range of vocabulary is used for the task, with some attempts at less common vocabulary.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence forms is used, with some errors that do not impede communication.
Band 5-6 Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates a modest command of English with noticeable limitations:
- Task Response: The essay addresses the task only partially, with limited development of ideas.
- Coherence and Cohesion: There is some organization of information and ideas, but overall progression may not always be clear.
- Lexical Resource: A limited range of vocabulary is used, with some errors in word choice and spelling.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Sentence structures are simple and repetitive, with frequent grammatical errors.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Public health initiatives (noun phrase) – /ˈpʌblɪk helθ ɪˈnɪʃətɪvz/ – Government-led programs aimed at improving community health
- Lifestyle diseases (noun phrase) – /ˈlaɪfstaɪl dɪˈziːzɪz/ – Health conditions caused by daily habits and behaviors
- Prevalence (noun) – /ˈprevələns/ – The fact or condition of being widespread
- Sedentary (adjective) – /ˈsedntri/ – Characterized by much sitting and little physical activity
- Accountability (noun) – /əˌkaʊntəˈbɪləti/ – The fact or condition of being responsible
- Intervention (noun) – /ˌɪntərˈvenʃn/ – Action taken to improve a situation
- Multi-faceted (adjective) – /ˌmʌltiˈfæsɪtɪd/ – Having many different aspects or features
- Conducive (adjective) – /kənˈdjuːsɪv/ – Making a certain situation or outcome likely or possible
- Empower (verb) – /ɪmˈpaʊər/ – Give someone the authority or power to do something
- Collaborative (adjective) – /kəˈlæbərətɪv/ – Involving two or more parties working together
Conclusion
The topic of public health initiatives in preventing lifestyle diseases is a complex and relevant issue in IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the different perspectives and using appropriate vocabulary and structures, you can craft a well-reasoned response to such questions. Remember to always address all parts of the task, organize your ideas logically, and use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures appropriate to your level.
For further practice, try writing your own essay on this topic or related ones, such as:
- The role of education in promoting healthy lifestyles
- The impact of technology on public health
- The balance between personal freedom and public health regulations
Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section below. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS exam.
