Preventive Health and Public Health Responding to disease outbreaks and controlling widespread disease problems has long been a traditional function of public health. MSDH has active programs to address sexually-transmitted diseases, chronic diseases, early childhood diseases, and outbreaks like COVID-19. While being responsive is important, it's not the most effective way to deal with the state's outstanding health shortcomings – heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer. More lives and money are saved by preventing these conditions before they become a serious burden to the public. Disease prevention is the newest focus of public health, but prevention ultimately depends on individuals taking charge of their health. That means learning about good health habits from your doctor or from websites like HealthyMS.com, understanding your personal health (blood pressure, blood sugar, weight), and creating your healthy future by taking steps to better health. Disease prevention and better health is a partnership between you and public health institutions like MSDH. We're here to help you get started, keep you on track, and work toward a healthier Mississippi for all. Steps to better health  | | Staying active is one of the greatest drivers of good health. Make an effort to move vigorously every day, whether it's walking, running, dancing, or simple exercises. Start with a few minutes and build up to half an hour or more. Ways to get moving |  | | Choosing foods that build health is the second key to getting healthy and staying that way. When you focus on more fruits, grains and vegetables, lighter meats, and eliminate snack food, you can lower your risk of major chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease, and feel better at the same time. Simple ways to eat better |  | | Regular checkups to watch your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar give you advance warning of serious problems, and keep you on track to health. Heart disease kills more Mississippians than any other cause, yet it's easy to avoid. The numbers you need to know |  | | Keep a healthy weight to make life longer and more enjoyable. When you eat right and stay active, you're already on your way to your best weight. Help with a healthy weight | Managing chronic disease If you have a chronic condition like diabetes, high cholesterol, or heart disease, our free programs help you with the skills to manage your condition and work toward better health and a higher quality of life. Learn about our chronic disease management programs |
No comments:
Post a Comment