Public health week activities were in full swing around campus this week. OSU’s student-led public health club hosted three events on campus to coincide with the American Public Health Association’s (APHA) annual observance of National Public Health Week.
A healthy snack giveaway, “Dropout Nation” viewing and cigarette butt clean-up were held to increase awareness of public health issues on campus. Club president Catherine Huang says choosing the events was difficult because the club felt there are many important public health topics. They went with themes that coincide with APHA’s efforts to create a healthier nation.
Approximately 275 students, community members and OSU staff engaged in the activities. Catherine says many were asking questions about eating healthier and how to incorporate healthy habits into their diets. The Human Development and Family Sciences student club participated in the movie screening regarding a rising concern of high school dropout rates. Although OSU is already a clean campus, participants collected more than 1,000 butts around congested areas.
“We have great courses and resources on campus that address specific issues about public health,” Catherine says. “Courses cover the issues of public health and barriers preventing optimal health. Our Student Health Services provides a great opportunity for health promotion and prevention workshops, including topics such as sexual health, nutrition, physical activity, stress, body image and tobacco cessation.” The workshops are funded by student fees and are free to all students interested in increasing knowledge to improve their health.
In addition to student health club activities, the CPHHS hosted a screening of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Health Equity Forum. “Accelerating Health Equity for the Nation” featured senior administration and federal officials outlining current initiatives of the Obama Administration and HHS to provide equal health opportunities to accelerate the well-being of all Americans.
Additional information and resources related to public health topics can be from on APHA’s National Public Health Week website. APHA also puts out a daily newsfeed about current news on public health issues.