Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

Abstract #122066

Larry Cohen, MSW, Prevention Institute, 265 29th Street, Oakland, CA 94611, 510-444-7738, Larry@preventioninstitute.org

Our healthcare system is in jeopardy, failing the vast majority of Americans who depend on it. The gravest consequences are experienced by low-income people and people of color, who suffer disproportionately from poor health and safety outcomes. Growing concern over health disparities has resulted in a focus on increasing access to and quality of treatment. Still, we can and must do more to prevent health problems from arising in the first place.

In examining ways to improve health before the onset of injury or illness, we are coming to understand the critical role of both the natural environment (air, water, soil) and the social, cultural and political “environment,” which shapes behavior and health outcomes. By focusing on the “environment,” we can reduce the number of people needing treatment. Building upon Health For All: California's Strategic Approach to Eliminating Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities and THRIVE (Toolkit for Health and Resilience in Vulnerable Environments), this presentation describes a strategy which communities and government can undertake to save lives, reduce suffering and save money.

With leadership and support from APHA, The California Endowment, The California Wellness Foundation, Kaiser Permanente and The Federal Office of Minority Health, Prevention Institute has identified the key factors that underlie community well-being, and has created an assessment tool for strengthening a community's capacity to reduce disparities. Such an approach not only prevents injury and disease, but also reduces their impact on those already afflicted. It is a vital component in efforts to rebuild our health system.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the importance and effectiveness of a focus on primary prevention in the reduction of health disparities.
• Better understand an effective prevention approach and the tools for working at a community level.

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.