News & Media
National Public Health Week April 7-13, 2025: A Celebration of Health, Education, and Community
National Public Health Week (NPHW) is recognized each year to promote public health education, raise awareness about critical health issues, and foster a sense of community responsibility. National Public Health Week has been integral in advancing health equity, improving community well-being and championing policies that protect and promote public health. This year’s National Public Health week marks 30 years of highlighting the work of public health and the changes in outcomes for patients across the nation, and across the state of Michigan.
National Public Health Week is designed to highlight the importance of public health initiatives in protecting and improving the health of communities. It draws attention to the myriad factors that contribute to health outcomes—ranging from access to healthcare and education to social determinants such as housing, employment, and nutrition. In Michigan, the week is especially important as the state faces a variety of unique public health challenges, including chronic diseases, mental health concerns, substance abuse, and the effects of environmental factors. In an effort to continue the availability of public health information, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has launched the Michigan Public Health Data Dashboard, providing policymakers with a data-driven snapshot of public health trends in each State House and State Senate district. “We are excited to announce this dashboard and make it available to Michigan policymakers and the public,” said Natasha Bagdasarian, MD, chief medical executive and Public Health Advisory Council (PHAC) co-chair. “While this will be a valuable tool for state lawmakers; the available information can also be used broadly by local leaders, advocacy groups and individuals, informing and supporting local public health decisions and community health actions.” You can access the dashboard by visiting the website Michigan.gov/HealthStatistics and will be routinely updated as additional information becomes available.
This week also offers many community-based activities, events, and opportunities for health awareness education to take part in. The Detroit Health Department is hosting a series of events from April 8 to 12, including free health screenings, chair yoga sessions, and wellness resources at locations such as the Adam Butzel Complex. The Central Michigan District Health Department is also participating in NPHW activities, aiming to promote public health awareness and engagement. To find information about your community, check with your Local Public Health office, or The Michigan Association of Local Public Health (MALPH) for statewide recourses and information at www.malph.org.
The Michigan State Medical Society is pleased to announce the next webinar in the public health series:
Michigan's Public Health Webinar Series: The Structure of Public Health in Michigan
Join us on Wednesday, May 21, from 12:00 to 12:45 pm to hear Jennifer Morse, MD, MPH, FAAFP, Medical Director at Central Michigan District, Mid-Michigan District, District Health Department #10 provide a presentation on the structure of public health in Michigan.
Click here to register.
You can view past webinars in this series and other topics by visiting the website at www.msms.org/eduction. As a member of MSMS, you receive access to FREE Continuing Medical Education (CME) courses.
National Public Health Week in Michigan serves as a timely reminder of the importance of public health and the vital role each of us plays in creating a healthier state. Through education, advocacy, and community engagement, Michigan continues to make strides toward better health for all its residents. By focusing on mental health, health equity, and disease prevention, NPHW 2025 provides a unique opportunity to reflect on the progress made and the work still to be done.