The American Public Health Association and public health professionals around the country are focusing on prevention and wellness during this year’s National Public Health Week.
“Every year, chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer and diabetes are responsible for millions of premature deaths. Americans miss 2.5 billion days of work because of these illnesses, and all of that lost productivity adds up to more than $1 trillion. Injuries, unexpected accidents and violence affect people daily in all aspects of life. Unintentional injuries, such as motor vehicle crashes, poisonings, and burns rank among the top 10 causes of death for people aged 44 and younger” (American Public Health Association).
Tips for a healthier lifestyle from the American Public Health Association
- Eat less by avoiding over-sized portions, make half of the plate fruits and vegetables, make at least half of the grains whole grains, switch to fat-free or low-fat (1 percent) milk, choose foods with less sodium and drink water instead of sugary drinks.
- Engage in physical activity every day. Aim for a total of 60 minutes for children, 30 minutes for adults.
- Consider following the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommendations that children under 2 years old not watch any TV and that those older than 2 watch no more than one to two hours a day of quality programming.
- Lead or convene city, county and regional food policy councils to assess local community needs and expand programs (e.g., community gardens, farmer’s markets) that bring healthy foods, especially locally grown fruits and vegetables, to schools, businesses and communities.
Get Involved at DMU
Please join the MPH Student Club on Friday, April 6 at 12:30 p.m. in the SEC Auditorium. The MPHSC has invited Governor Terry Branstad and DMU President Dr. Franklin to speak with the DMU community regarding Strategies for Community Health Improvement.
