Life is better for everyone when a country's level of health is high. Many local, national, and worldwide organizations promote the health of the public. Public-health programs help to prevent and to fight disease. They help people to live longer, healthier lives.

Public health in the United States

National, state, and local governments run many public-health programs in the United States. One important program is the vaccination of children. Each state requires most children to be vaccinated against certain diseases. Some public- health programs provide medical care to people in rural areas. Other programs help pregnant women to have healthy babies. Still others teach people how to prevent disease by quitting smoking, eating well, and exercising.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services oversees many government agencies that promote public health. One agency works to find cures for diseases. Other agencies work to keep food and water safe to eat and drink.

Public health worldwide

Most countries have their own public-health programs. In addition, the World Health Organization (WHO) promotes the health of people around the world. The WHO works to stop the spread of such diseases as polio, tuberculosis, malaria, and AIDS. Its vaccination programs helped to rid the world of smallpox by the late 1970s. The WHO also warns travelers about diseases they might catch in certain countries.

History and future

Before the 19th century health was mostly a personal or local problem. With the growth of cities, however, people began to see the need for keeping the public healthy. More hospitals appeared. Cities installed systems to provide people with clean water. Scientists learned that bacteria and viruses caused disease, and they created vaccines to keep people from catching diseases. At the same time, governments began to set up public-health programs.

Public health is important for the future well-being of the world, especially as the population continues to grow. Governments and international organizations continue to work to find cures for diseases and to control their spread. These groups try to reduce pollution that causes health problems. They also encourage good health by educating people about healthy lifestyles.