3. Public health

Public health

refers to all organised measures (public/private) to prevent disease, promote health and prolong life among the population as a whole

example of public health

vaccination programes to health promotion like public health campains

core functions of public health

• assessment

• policy development

• assurance

assesment

• involves monitoring the health status of communities and identifying health problems and hazards

• vital for detecting emerging health issues and understanding the needs of the population

Policy development

• policy development focuses on informing education and empowering people about health issues as well as developing polices and plans that support community health efforts

• effective policy development ensures that public health strategies are based on sound evidence and can address the root causes of health problems

Assurance

• ensures that laws and regulations protecting health are enforces and that prople have access to needed health servicesm

• make sure the health systems work as intended and that everyone has access to the care they need

key areas of public health

• disease prevention

• health promotion

• health protection

disease prevention

vaccination programmes

infection control

chronic disease managment

Health promotion

public education campaigns

lifestyle modifications

mental health support

health protection

environmental health

food safety

occupational health

importance of public health

impact on society

economic benefits

equity

impact on society

reduces the burden of disease and disability

increases life expectancy and quality of life

economic benefits

prevents costly medical treatments by addressing health issues early 

supports a healthy workforce contributing to economic growth

equity

addresses health disparities and promotes health equity across different populations