Public health protects and improves the health of people where they live, work, and play.
Doctors and other healthcare providers treat illness or injuries, but in public health our goal is to prevent illness, disability, and injury, and improve how healthcare services are delivered.
We work to identify disease outbreaks, prevent injuries, and shed light on why some of us are more likely to suffer from poor health than others. And we implement large-scale solutions that improve the health of entire populations.
In the last 100 years, public health has added 25 years to the life expectancy of people living in the United States by advocating to protect our nation’s health and safety. According to the Center for Disease Control, public health’s 10 greatest achievements in the 20th century are:
- Immunizations
- Motor vehicle safety
- Workplace safety
- Control of infectious diseases
- Declines in deaths from heart disease and stroke
- Safer and healthier foods
- Healthier mothers and babies
- Family planning
- Fluoridation of drinking water
- Tobacco as a health hazard
As public health practitioners and researchers, we advocate for prevention and policy that benefits all people. We strive to ensure everyone has a chance at a long and healthy life. We work to build healthier communities that will contribute to a healthier nation.