Sunday, April 3, 2011

Celebrating National Public Health Week

McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH) joins the American Public Health Association (APHA) in celebrating National Public Health Week, April 4-10. This year’s theme “Safety is no Accident: Live Injury-free”.  MCDH is partnering with local organizations to highlight safety issues at home, at work, at play and in the community.

Injury is the most expensive medical problem in the United States. In a single year, $80 billion will be spent on medical care; another $326 billion on lost productivity; and an untold amount on social support for the individuals and families caring for the severely injured.  In many cases, these costs are increasing because preventative measures are not being taken to prevent injuries and violence.

“National Public Health Week helps educate Americans about ways to live healthier lives. The events that take place this year will help construct an America that is more aware of how to prevent injuries and violence,” said Georges C. Benjamin, MD, FACP, FACEP, executive director of APHA.  “Our ultimate goal is to make America the healthiest nation in one generation. Taking simple steps within our families and our communities will help prevent injuries and therefore create safer places to live.”
For more information about National Public Health Week, visit www.nphw.org.

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