Every year, National Public Health Week (NPHW) and World Health Day bring to light the importance of public health. This year, with the theme “Protecting, Connecting and Thriving: We Are All Public Health,” we’re reminded how important it is to work together to enhance public health. As we dive into a week dedicated to understanding and advancing public health, it’s important to remember that public health is more than just healthcare. It’s at the heart of what we do to keep our communities safe.

Public health is so much more than just doctor visits and hospitals. It’s about taking proactive measures to ensure our neighborhoods are free from pollution, our food and water are safe, and our communities foster strong relationships. This collective effort involves individuals, families, communities, and the public health field working together to achieve common goals. By focusing on the interconnectedness of our actions and well-being, we can create a stronger, healthier future for all.

NPHW 2024 has been thoughtfully structured around daily themes that reflect the diverse aspects of public health:

• Monday: Civic Engagement – Emphasizing the importance of community involvement and participation in public health decisions.
• Tuesday: Healthy Neighborhoods – Focusing on creating environments that promote well-being and prevent disease.
• Wednesday: Climate Change – Addressing the global health threats posed by environmental changes.
• Thursday: New Tools and Innovations – Exploring technological advancements and innovations in public health.
• Friday: Reproductive and Sexual Health – Highlighting the significance of access to comprehensive reproductive health services.
• Saturday: Emergency Preparedness – Preparing communities for health emergencies and disasters.
• Sunday: The Future of Public Health – Envisioning advancements and challenges in the public health field.

APHA has provided a toolkit to help plan local events, offering fact sheets and shareables for exploring different public health topics. This year, individuals are also encouraged to take action on public health issues with their local elected leaders, demonstrating the power of advocacy and community involvement

• Use the toolkit to plan local events in your community.
• Use the fact sheets and shareables to explore different public health topics with your friends, family and community members.
• Take action on public health with your local elected leaders.

By engaging in NPHW activities, we all contribute to a larger movement towards a healthier future, highlighting the crucial role of public health beyond the confines of healthcare.

Healthcare professionals and the wider community are encouraged to participate in these meaningful activities, fostering a collective effort towards achieving the goals of public health. Together, we can ensure our communities are not only surviving but thriving.