National Public Health Week
April 7-13, 2003

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What is National Public Health Week?

National Public Health Week is an observance that is celebrated every year in April to bring attention to both the field of public health and important health concerns facing the Nation. It is sponsored by the American Public Health Association (APHA), the governing body for public health professionals in the United States. The theme for this year's celebration is "Getting in Shape for the Future: Healthy Eating and Active Living."

What is public health?

The American Heritage Dictionary defines public health as "the science and practice of protecting and improving the health of a community, as by preventive medicine, health education, control of communicable diseases, application of sanitary measures, and monitoring of environmental hazards." The health advances of the 20th century were due almost entirely to public health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recognizes the following to be the 10 greatest public health achievements of the 20th century: immunization, workplace safety, safer and healthier foods, motor vehicle safety, control of infectious diseases, decline in deaths from coronary heart disease and stroke, family planning, recognition of tobacco use as a health hazard, healthier mothers and babies, and fluoridation of drinking water.

Why is this year's focus on overweight and obesity?

Due to the growing numbers of Americans who are overweight or obese, the APHA has chosen to focus on healthy eating and active living this year. In order to stay healthy, it is important to eat a balanced diet and exercise regularly. It is recommended that all Americans engage in at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day. The APHA suggests several everyday activities to help achieve this goal, including pushing a stroller, gardening, stair climbing, walking, dancing, and bicycling.

How can I learn more about these topics?

To learn more about public health in the United States, visit the APHA web site at www.apha.org. For additional information about overweight and obesity, contact the American Obesity Association at www.obesity.org.