A.

Health A state of complete physical, mental and social well being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. (WHO definition) Determinants of Health 1. Income and social status - higher income and social status are linked to better health. The greater the gap between the richest and poorest people, the greater the differences in health. 2. Education low education levels are linked with poor health, more stress and lower self-confidence. 3. Physical environment safe water and clean air, healthy workplaces, safe houses, communities and roads all contribute to good health. 4. Employment and working conditions people in employment are healthier, particularly those who have more control over their working conditions 5. Social support networks greater support from families, friends and communities is linked to better health. 6. Culture - customs and traditions, and the beliefs of the family and community all affect health. 7. Genetics - inheritance plays a part in determining lifespan, healthiness and the likelihood of developing certain illnesses. 8. Personal behavior and coping skills balanced eating, keeping active, smoking, drinking, and how we deal with lifes stresses and challenges all affect health. 9. Health services - access and use of services that prevent and treat disease influences health 10. Gender - Men and women suffer from different types of diseases at different ages. B. Public Health The science and art of preventing disease, prolonging life and efficiency through organized community effort for: a. the sanitation of the environment b. the control of communicable infections c. the education of the individual in personal hygiene d. the organization of medical and nursing services for the early diagnosis and preventive treatment of disease e. The development of a social machinery to ensure every one a standard of living, adequate for maintenance of health to enable every citizen to realize his birth right of health and longevity - Dr. C.E Winslow The art of applying science in context of policies to reduce inequalities of health while ensuring the best health for the greatest number -World Health Organization

Core Business of Public Health 1. 2. 3. 4. Disease control Injury prevention Health protection Healthy public policy including those in relation to environment hazards such as in the workplace, housing, food, water, etc. 5. Promotion of health and equitable health gain Functions of Public Health 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Health monitoring and analysis Epidemiological monitoring (disease prevention and control) Development of policies and planning in public health Management of health systems Regulation for protection of public health HR development and planning in public health Health promotion, social participation and empowerment Quality health services Research and development