Oral

Because state legislative policies are one avenue to influence the recreational environment, more information on the content and impact of parks and open space policies could help assist public health decision-makers and planners involved in creating conditions that support or encourage an increase in active outdoor recreation. Public policy should shift focus to more effectively mitigate the negative effects of upstream social and environmental factors that underlie many chronic conditions. By encouraging health promotion, education and targeted disease prevention programs, public health policy may prove an effective tool for addressing broader issues of rising medical costs and declining economic productivity.

Session Objectives: 1. Explain and analyze the current use of media and symbols in tobacco control policy and education. 2. Describe the current state of legislative policies that constitute the recreational environment. 3. Describe the relationship between social and environmental health determinants and the prevalence of chronic conditions.

CE Credits: Medical (CME), Health Education (CHES), Nursing (CNE), Public Health (CPH)