Today is an exciting time for public health professionals. Here are a few reasons why:
- In the coming years, major advances in health improvement will come from broader development and application of population-based programs rather than from new medical findings or cures.
- Health promotion and disease prevention are receiving greater emphasis as a means of reducing costs by improving the health of our populations. Opportunities are emerging for public health professionals with advanced training.
- As we learn more about the effects of toxic wastes and pollutants, demand is growing for experts in environmental health and industrial hygiene.
- Public health research has turned more toward women’s health, child abuse and substance abuse. Behavioral change is being emphasized to help prevent STDs, HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and unplanned pregnancies.