From the American Public Health Association:
On behalf of the American Public Health Association, I am delighted to invite you to join us as we celebrate National Public Health Week!
Our theme this year is “Protecting, Connecting and Thriving: We Are All Public Health.” Our focus is not just the ways public health serves our communities — protecting our access to clean water and air, to nutritious and safe foods, to the right and ability to access essential health services — but the ways our communities flourish when they have their needs met. We’re covering everything from the basics of safe and healthy schools to the tools that connect us, even when we’re miles apart. As we celebrate the 29th NPHW, April 1-7, we want everyone to know they can make their communities healthier, safer and stronger when we support and stay engaged with one another. When we connect with each other, whether with our neighbors or our lawmakers, we can build relationships that protect our health and enrich our lives.
This NPHW, one of our goals is to look at how our cultural connections and intersections affect our health, well-being and the public health system that cares for us. We’re encouraging everyone — public health professionals, students, elected leaders, activists and the public — to step in and do what they can to make our world a more equitable, safe, healthy and just place. We hope you’ll join us.
For more information about National Public Health Week, visit www.nphw.org.
Civic engagement, the actions that we and our communities take to identify and address problems, shapes our opportunities to be healthy. By taking actions to get more civically engaged, like voting, we exercise our right to make decisions about our communities, like whether our neighborhoods have walkable sidewalks, how much funding goes to reproductive health clinics in our states and how prepared the nation’s infrastructure is for future pandemics and disasters.
Tuesday, April 2 - Healthy Neighborhoods
We know that where we live – where we eat, sleep, work, play, learn and pray – can have a huge effect on our health. But what makes a neighborhood healthy? Having safe places to live, without hazards or pollution. Having safe ways for everyone to be active, like sidewalks, and safe places to bike. Having easy access to fresh, affordable, nutritious and culturally appropriate food. When our neighborhoods are healthy, we have the building blocks for healthy lives.
Wednesday, April 3 - Climate Change
Climate change is the most pressing threat to human health that our world faces today. Some groups of people, including communities of color and low-income neighborhoods, are disproportionately impacted by climate change. They face decades of limited investment in their health and increased pollution in their neighborhoods. We need swift action to lessen the health impacts of climate change. Now is the time to act. Actions should come from and with communities.
Thursday, April 4 - New Tools and Innovations
Public health is all about preventing disease, diagnosing health conditions and encouraging health and well-being. However, achieving these goals wouldn’t be possible without the help of new tools and innovations in public health. From wearable fitness bands to virtual doctors’ appointments, new technology has changed the way individuals and communities receive and respond to health information. Other tools, like warning systems for natural disasters or COVID-19 testing kits, can help individuals stay connected and protected during emergencies. Advancements in public health can help us in the fight towards equity, so all people and populations can thrive.
Friday, April 5 - Reproductive and Sexual Health
When people have access to quality reproductive and sexual health care and education, they can live happier and healthier lives. However, reproductive and sexual health justice are under attack, with over 500 anti-LGBTQ+ bills being introduced in 2023 alone and 43 states banning or heavily restricting access to safe abortions.
Saturday, April 6 - Emergency Preparedness
Unexpected events such as power outages and natural disasters like earthquakes and hurricanes can happen without a moment’s notice. That is why being ready for emergencies is crucial. Emergency preparedness is exactly what it sounds like; it involves planning, having supplies on hand and knowing how to stay safe during an emergency. Being ready for crises before they happen can not only protect you and your loved ones but also underserved communities where disasters can worsen inequities.
Sunday, April 7 - Future of Public Health
Public health needs to take a fresh approach — one rooted in fairness and inclusivity. Picture this: a world where equity isn't just a buzzword, but a guiding principle. Communities are at the heart of decision-making and actively shaping their health, not sidelined. Public health's future is all about teaming up — joining forces with unexpected partners from different sectors and centering community voices. This future is about tearing down barriers, not just fixing problems but preventing them altogether. It's making sure every person has access to the support and care they need for a healthier life.