After the World War 2, social rules and morals changed vastly. Even though there was an increase in health and educational opportunities, old school behavior and standards were shed. New technology emerged rapidly, changing people's lives completely.


Due to the improved health, there was an in increase in the life expectancy. Infant mortality dropped and children became healthier. In 1952, the cost of medical services increased and because of the new medical technology and drugs that became available to patients, the cost continued to rise. The rapid increase in population also contributed to this rise in cost. (1)


A reduction in death rates due to infectious diseases was also seen as more immunizations became safe and available.


Family planning became a norm when oral contraceptive pills were introduced in the 1960s. Still, unwanted pregnancies were a problem and in fact, increased in number. (1)


Young people began smoking and the usage of recreational drugs soared, as well as the intake of alcohol. Due to this, heart and lung problems increased. ‘In the years between 1968 and 1978, alcohol as a cause of death had risen by 141%. The use of recreational drugs became common and there was a 263% rise in the use of addictive drugs over the same period’. (1)


In the 1960s and 1970s, exercise became less common. This was partly due to the new technology such as televisions and cars and also, fast food restaurants, which became extremely popular during this time. This created health concerns such as heart attacks and diabetes. Later, in the late 1970s and 1980s, there was an outburst of exercise videos and sports that were advertised to correct this ‘couch potato’ problem. Gyms, fitness clubs, aerobics and martial arts became very popular. (1)


Road accident increased greatly during and after the 1950s. ‘In 1967, the first drink-drive laws were introduced. By 1970, there were 15 million vehicles on the roads. Seatbelts were not made compulsory until 1983’. (1)


Problems due to the environment came about, such as allergies and asthma. Until today, these diseases cause a huge problem in society. (1)


References:

 (1): http://cookit.e2bn.org/historycookbook/36-835-postwar-modern-Health-facts.html