Public Health Strategies Prevention Programs These programs teach

Public Health Strategies

Prevention Programs �These programs teach people how to live healthier lifestyles � Designed to reduce the cost of healthcare �Aimed at children and youth to reduce health costs and prevent the development of disease

Immunization �Involves making a person immune to infection through vaccination �Many disease are prevented because kids have immunizations throughout their lives �Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is required by law for all schoolaged children in Ontario

Smoke Free Environments �The chemicals in cigarette smoke known to cause cancer are called carcinogens �These carcinogens affect cells, tissues, and organs, particularly in the lungs �Second-hand smoke can be extremely harmful �As of May 2006, smoking has been prohibited in all workplaces and enclosed public places

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Promoting Public Awareness: Healthy Lifestyles �Campaigns to make the public more aware of ways to practice healthy lifestyles when outside �Include: protecting yourself from the Sun and from West Nile virus West Nile Virus – Spread by birds and mosquitoes and results in flu like symptoms, possible paralysis, seizure, or death -minimize exposure to mosquitoes -Remove sources of standing water - Apply insect repellent

Screening Programs �Inexpensive test to reduce the incidences of disease through early prevention �Two Types: 1) Cancer Screening -Cancer affects almost every organ in the body -Regular examinations catch cancer in its early stages 2) DNA Screening -Test to see if an individual has certain genes that are related to diseases

Health Education Programs �Communicate information using brochures, websites, posters, and television commercials �Include HIV/AIDS education and nutrition education - Experts believe that education and awareness of HIV/AIDS is vital to reducing the spread of HIV - Link between good nutrition, school performance, and development of a healthy body

Personal Choice �Reality is healthy living is still a personal choice (smoking and tax) �Some choices are easier than others = Vaccinations �Cost effective health investments �Eating or sun protection may be more difficult for some individuals