Public health is concerned with the health and well-being
of the whole community rather than the treatment of illness
and disability. Health is viewed as a resource for everyday
living, and in turn is influenced by the everyday environment
we are a part of. Public Health is interested in the broad
determinants of health such as income level, social status,
education, employment, employment opportunities, work place
environment, and the support of family and friends. It focuses
on three areas: preventing conditions that may put health
at risk (health protection), early detection of health problems
(screening) and changing peoples attitudes and practices regarding
healthy lifestyle changes (health promotion).
Examples of health protection would be their work in the area
of environmental risks such as toxic waste, air pollution
and second-hand smoke.
Screening programs are aimed at specific groups where early
detection of disease can lead to significant decreases in
mortality and morbidity such as breast, cervical and colorectal
cancer.
Health promotion programs include (for example) provision
of information around tobacco use, nutrition, physical activity,
sun sense and alcohol use.
Click here
for locations of Public Health in Southeastern Ontario. |
