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An engaging new web series is helping Americans understand the link between public health and their own well-being.
Launched today by the American Public Health Association and Complexly, the “That’s Public Health” series features short, easy-to-understand videos on a range of public health topics.
The first episode, “What is Public Health?” can be viewed and shared online now on APHA’s YouTube channel, www.youtube.com/aphadc. Narrated by Mighty Fine, MPH, CHES, director of APHA’s Center for Public Health Practice and Professional Development, the four-minute video provides an overview of public health and how it benefits all Americans.
Other episodes in the 20-part web series will focus on health equity, climate change, gun violence, racism and more. New episodes will be released weekly on APHA’s YouTube channel.
Research has shown that when Americans learn about public health and how it benefits them, they support it. While trust in the nation’s public health system has fallen during the COVID-19 pandemic, Americans still believe public health agencies are “extremely” important, a summer poll from Harvard University found.
“We want viewers to come away from this series with a new understanding, to say to themselves ‘Oh, that’s public health,’” said Georges C. Benjamin, MD, APHA’s executive director. “It’s an educational tool, it’s entertaining and it’s something that can be easily shared. These videos are perfect for social media, classrooms, websites and more.”
“That’s Public Health” was developed through a partnership with YouTube, which is working through its health partnerships team to support credible, science-based health information on the platform. In January, YouTube announced it was partnering with APHA, the National Academy of Medicine, Harvard School of Public Health and others to elevate evidence-based content from authoritative sources. YouTube is one of the world’s most popular web platforms, with 81% of Americans using it, according to the Pew Research Center.
To ensure the web series was both science-based and appealing, APHA joined with Complexly. As producer of popular online shows that include Crash Course, SciShow and PBS Eons, the production company brought its expertise in translating science for the public to the project.
Complexly’s goal “is to make the kind of videos that are interesting and engaging enough for everyone, but rigorous enough for people who are beginning a career path,” according to Hank Green, Complexly CEO.
“No one is surprised that there has been a huge increase in the number of people interested in public health. That goes for ordinary people who want to better understand their world, but also for students who are deciding what careers they want to pursue,” Green said. “I can't imagine a more important topic to take on right now.”
The debut of “That’s Public Health” comes during the celebration of APHA’s 150th anniversary, which is highlighting the Association’s accomplishments and looking toward the future of the public health.
“We are pleased to work with both YouTube and Complexly to share this important information and educate Americans about public health during our anniversary year,” Benjamin said.
To watch, share and subscribe to “That’s Public Health,” visit www.youtube.com/aphadc.
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The American Public Health Association champions the health of all people and all communities. We are the only organization that combines a 150-year perspective, a broad-based member community and the ability to influence federal policy to improve the public’s health. Learn more at www.apha.org.