Recorded presentation

Susan Waldron, Lead Poisoning Prevention Program Coordinator, Ottawa County Health Department, 1930 N. Elm, Miami, OK 74354, (918) 540-2481, susanaw@health.state.ok.us

Media reports of public health issues and data can greatly affect the public’s perception of environmental health issues and the corresponding health implications and impact. Health education goals, objectives, and strategies must remain flexible and take into account preconceived attitudes, increased awareness, and misinterpretation of health data – both for the individual and the community. Case examples and lessons learned from a Superfund Site are discussed that can assist community public health education efforts.

Learning Objectives:

• 1.Recognize the need to routinely assess community perception of public health issues
• 2.Understand the impact of media reports and data analysis on community interventions and health education efforts
• 3.Know when public health education efforts are not effective and what to do to adjust interventions accordingly
• 4.Recognize the need to develop and utilize all available resources to assist in disseminating valid and valuable information.

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

Recorded presentation