274452 Connecting the dots: Engaging the public in community epidemiological studies and public health decisions

Monday, October 29, 2012 : 10:50 AM - 11:05 AM

Lawrence W. Green, DrPH , Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
For all the dependence of public health on public understanding and action for the success of its programs, we have little systematic development of epidemiological thinking and understanding for the public to connect the dots between news of etiological discoveries or threats and the actions they can take individually or collectively to protect themselves and their communities. We have much experience with mass media and public health education campaigns and programs for specific diseases or conditions for which general guidelines for personal hygiene, immunization, or medical consultation can be recommended. That the public craves an opportunity to participate more actively in public health decisions and actions is attested by the enormous growth of undergraduate degree programs in public health, and the popularity of a series of popular films and books such as “Contagion,” and “The Coming Plague.” This presentation will suggest some actions that public health scientists and professionals can take to assure greater public participation in and understanding of the epidemiological research and evidence that pertains to their personal and community lives.

Learning Areas:
Advocacy for health and health education
Assessment of individual and community needs for health education
Epidemiology
Public health or related education
Public health or related laws, regulations, standards, or guidelines
Public health or related research

Learning Objectives:
Discuss ways in which local communities and individuals can participate more actively in the production and application of epidemiological evidence of greatest relevance to their lives.

Keywords: Community Capacity, Community-Based Public Health

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: I have worked extensively over several decades in public health education, epidemiology, public health policy, community research, and community-based participatory research.
Any relevant financial relationships? No

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.