Public Health Achievements in 21st Century
In 20th century, many common goals regarding
public health is achieved due to effective strategies formulated and
implemented by public health professionals. Public health is a science
regarding nation’s health and safety, working in collaboration with local
minorities to enhance health oriented decisions, and gathering health issues
information from various resources and developing data record for keeping
their track. Professionals develop strategies and implement them with the
help of various social organizations to promote good health in population.
The prime objective of public health professionals is to improve the quality
of life of masses by promoting healthy behaviors and life styles.
Significant public health achievements in 20Th century are as follow:
IMMUNIZATIONS:
In 20th century a campaign at a vast level was started to create awareness
among masses to realize them that vaccines are universally recommended for
children to control the preventable infectious diseases. Small pox,
poliomyelitis were completely eradicated. Case reported regarding children
below 5 years affected by measles and Haemophilus influenzae were
significantly less.
SAFER AND HEALTHIER FOOD:
In 20th century trend of refrigerator and freezers were developed which slow
down bacterial growth and keep food fresh and edible for longer period of
time. It was also discovered that essential nutrients and amino acids are
necessary to combat sickness.
DECLINES IN DEATH DUE TO HEART DISEASE AND STROKES:
In 20Th century it was observed that 40% of deaths that occurred were due to
heart disease and heart stroke. The significant cause of heart disease was
found to be obesity, higher cholesterol level, high blood pressure and
stress. No Smoking, more and more physical activity, healthy diet greatly
minimizes the risk of heart stroke and attacks.
CONTROL OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES:
Discovery that many of the diseases are due to micro organism was a
remarkable one and helped a lot to control most of the infectious diseases.
Many of the infectious diseases were prevented through antibiotics and
introducing concepts of personal hygiene and vaccinations.
FLUORIDATION OF DRINKING WATER:
Drinking water was fluoridated to enable people get rid of dental diseases.
It was discovered that drinking water was responsible for brown stain or
mottled enamel of teeth. Fluoridated water can overcome all such problems.
In 20th century it is quite evident, that greater public health oriented
work was done providing people a quality life.