Community Health
Community Health Status Indicators | Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity | Tobacco Use Prevention and Control | Oral Health
Chronic diseases
have a dramatic effect on our nation, profoundly impacting our economic
resources, our health care system, and our overall quality of life. Currently,
seven of every ten deaths in the United States are related to chronic diseases. The
most prevalent (cardiovascular disease, stroke, diabetes) are preventable
health problems. The medical care costs due to people with chronic diseases
are immense, accounting for more than 75% of the nation’s $1.4 trillion
health care expenses. What is more, the social implications of a chronic
disease negatively impact the quality of life of the suffering individual,
as well as the lives of their caregivers and other family members. For
this reason, it is crucial that local boards of health have the necessary resources
to educate their community members about preventative measures and the importance of partnering with other local
agencies.
Chronic disease
and tobacco use prevention are extremely important issues for local boards
of health and the communities they serve. NALBOH, the voice for public
health governance, translates public health interventions and initiatives
into governance practices to ensure that boards of health understand the
impact of policy on health outcomes. As volunteer leaders and public health
trustees, board members not only make necessary policy and regulatory changes
to introduce or institutionalize best practices for chronic disease and
tobacco use prevention into their local public health agency, but also
serve as advocates and liaisons to their neighbors, peers, partners, and
stakeholders. Because board members speak with authority in their communities,
they are a familiar and trusted resource for the community and a motivating
force for change.
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Did You Know...
The Community Guide includes evidence-based recommendations for programs and policies to promote the population's health. Click here to learn more!
December SPOTLIGHT: National Handwashing Awareness Week, December 7-13, 2008
The coming winter months mean it is time for cold and flu season. Handwashing is a proven, effective method for reducing your risk of becoming ill. By taking the time to review the simple steps for properly washing your hands, you can help reduce the spread of germs. Board of health members are encouraged to make sure their community members are aware of the importance of handwashing by providing educational classes and posters around the community. Take the time during December 7-13 to share valuable handwashing tips with friends and family members rather than germs! To learn more about National Handwashing Awareness Week, please click here.
Check back often for future editions of the "Community Health Spotlight."
In the News
New! By 2010 Cancer Will Surpass Heart Disease as the Worldwide Leading Cause of Death
New! Report Released from Trust for America's Health Recommends Ways New Administration Can Improve the Health of Americans
Become Part of the Healthiest Nation Alliance
Health and Human Services Releases Updated Website Focusing on Disease Prevention
SAMHSA Announces New Grant Opportunity for Child Mental Health Initiative
Study Released Shows Need for Professional Development Among Public Health Educators
CDC and Partnership for Prevention Release a New Publication on Fighting Chronic Diseases
Focus on Increasing Physical Activity, Preventing Smoking, and Improving Nutrition Could Save the U.S. $16 Billion in 5 Years
For questions or more information about NALBOH's community health programs, please contact Tricia Valasek.