Division of Public Health
The work of public health has helped the people in Wisconsin live
longer and healthier lives. Here are just a few of the
ways that public health positively affects everyone in Wisconsin.
Public health makes sure that:
- We learn ways to improve our own health, and learn to avoid
behaviors that lead to chronic disease, disability and early death;
- Our children are protected against lead poisoning and pregnant women
are aware of the harmful effects associated with exposure to mercury
and other hazardous substances;
- We know when to see our health care provider and know which screening tests we
should receive;
- A record is maintained of every birth, death, marriage, divorce and
adoption that occurs in Wisconsin so that we can prove the details of
these important events;
- Our children get preventive care for their teeth that helps prevent
decay;
- Children and adults get their immunizations on time;
- Pregnant women and new mothers have access to nutritious foods for
themselves and their babies;
- Mothers and fathers do a better job of parenting and our children
thrive;
- Fewer babies die in infancy;
- There are properly trained EMTs and paramedics to serve us in
emergencies;
- Fewer of us get sick, suffer injury or disability;
- Communicable disease outbreaks are discovered early and
interventions applied quickly;
- New residents gain access to the necessary health services quickly;
- Our restaurants use appropriate sanitation practices, our hotels and
motels are clean and safe, and public swimming pools do not spread
disease;
- We know how to protect our families in emergencies and have access
to resources to help us recover from flooding, severe weather and
tornadoes.
Public health is always working to make Wisconsin a place with healthy people
in healthy communities. Learn more about public health by visiting
the links that follow.
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Last Revised: July 22, 2009 |
