National Public Health Week Day 4: Be the Healthiest Nation in One Generation
Apr 11, 2014
For the first time in decades, the current generation isn’t as healthy as the one that came before. Communities need to band together to take a stance against this disturbing trend to make sure that children and young adults have bright, healthy futures. Public health professionals can lead the way by helping communities identify the resources and information available to keep everyone healthy and safe.
Did you know?
- The U.S. spends far more on health care than any other country, with such costs rising tenfold from 1980 to 2010 and expected to rise faster than national income during the foreseeable future. However, investing just $10 per person each year in proven, community-based public health efforts could save the nation more than $16 billion within five years.
- By 2020, the direct benefits of the federal Clean Air Act will have reached almost $2 trillion, much more than the $65 billion it will have cost to implement the law. About 85 percent of the $2 trillion is attributable to decreases in premature death and illness related to air pollution.
- Twenty-three to one: That's the rate of the return on investment in clean water technologies in the first half of the 20th century.
- Widening access to care by investing in expanded Medicaid eligibility, which is encouraged and funded via the Affordable Care Act, results in better health outcomes and reductions in mortality, especially among communities already struggling with health problems.
Start Here:
- There are numerous ways that the Affordable Care Act (ACA) will benefit specific populations. Visit APHA’s website for consumer education resources on the ACA.
- Visit HealthCare.gov to learn more about newly available options for health care coverage provided under the Affordable Care Act.
- Remember these simple reminders from Live Well Sioux Falls that can help you and your family live healthier lives: Breathe Well, Eat Well, Feel Well and Move Well!
Resources:
American Public Health Association - Healthiest Nation in One Generation
