HEALTH EDUCATION

Since early in the 20th century, health educators have played an important role in addressing challenges to our health. In the past, when the biggest killers in this country were infectious diseases such as smallpox, science and medicine helped bring these killers more under control. In those efforts the role of the health educator was paramount. Then and now health educators provided expertise in shaping messages, sharing information about different infectious diseases, designing health programs and campaigns, and helping consumers understand disease risks and appropriate ways for improving health status.

Now, the greatest threats to our health are chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease, diabetes, AIDS, obesity, injuries, as well as biological agents. In addressing these threats, the job of health educators involves a knowledge-base and skill set aimed at improving and maintaining the health of individuals, families, and communities.