Opening Statement:
National Public Health Week is observed during the first week of April and takes place from April 1st to the 7th. It is within these seven days that we support and celebrate the good health of all Americans and the support to those who need assistance for better health. It is a week to recognize that everyone should lead healthier lives, regardless of where they live, work, or come from. Since its formation in 1955, this initiative has become an important movement to highlight issues that can improve the health and happiness of a nation. You could choose to a new workout or any workout challenge today. It’s a great week to start eating healthy and stick to it moving forward. Whatever you choose to do, remember to involve your friends, family, and the larger community. It is also a week when we campaign for health policies that are fair, inclusive, and accessible to all communities disabled and nondisabled in the United States.
History Of National Public Health Week
· The first National Public Health Week took place in April 1955 and was organized by the American Public Health Association (A.P.H.A.). Since then, the initiative has received tremendous support from civil societies and administrations across the United States. The day recognizes the long history and achievements in public health. It also serves to highlight critical issues to help people lead healthier and happier lives.
· In attempting to reach these goals, National Public Health Week seeks to address the root causes of poor health, disease, and lifestyles. It starts with recognizing that healthcare is still a privilege many cannot afford. Where people are born, their neighborhoods, places of work, different lives, and backgrounds determine the quality of healthcare access.
· A child who goes to school hungry will not be an engaged student. People working for minimum wages sacrifice health for the sake of an income. It’s thousands of families who have no access to nutritious food in their communities. Or those without the means to travel to access quality healthcare, often located far away.
· National Public Health Week is committed to making health inclusive and equitable. It hopes to foster decision-making that considers the health of all communities — irrespective of income, race, or gender. Each year, the first full week in April celebrates the power of the community in realizing this vision. The A.P.H.A. usually announces different themes for each day of the week. From fitness challenges and discussions to sharing healthy recipes, it’s seven days of committing to health as a country.
Understanding What Public Health Is and Why We Celebrate This Week
· Public health refers to systemic measures that promote health, prevent disease, and prolong life for a nation’s population. National Public Health Week channels the power of community for the greater good. Health is a fundamental right. Public Health is a matter of public concern and should never be an individual struggle.
How Do We Celebrate National Public Health Week?
· There are several ways to celebrate National Public Health Week. Attend online events or read up on the week and what it aims to achieve. Additionally, you can host an event with a fun physical challenge with friends, family, or co-workers
· You could review the A.P.H.A. website for more on this initiative. The website lists numerous tips and resources on keeping healthy communicable diseases, sexual health, and chronic diseases. Share these resources widely!
· Organize an event in the neighborhood to encourage physical activity. Think of fun workout challenges, steps counting, or going for a run together. Anything to keep people moving!
· What we feed our bodies is as important as exercise. Make nutritious meals for yourself and the family this week. Contrary to popular perception, healthy food can be tasty. All you need is commitment and some kitchen imagination.
Closing Statement:
While doing my research on public health, I learned that it was in 1798 that the first smallpox vaccine was developed by Edward Jenner. I also learned that During World War II, great swarms of mosquitoes forced General MacArthur’s armies to retreat from the Bataan Peninsula in the Philippines, as many of our troops were coming down with Malaria. Malaria was also a big problem with previous US wars. It is certain that National Public Health Week hopefully motivates everyone to make the first big step toward a healthier life and lifestyles. This week focuses on how we have access to credible resources on diseases of all kinds.
Source of Information: Various Google Searches
Until Next Week, Stay Safe and Well!
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