The Northeast Texas Public Health District was established in 1936 as the Tyler-Smith County Health Unit, but has evolved over the years to become a vital public health organization. On Monday morning, city and public health leaders in Tyler, Texas took a one-mile walk through the Tyler Rose Garden to kick off National Public Health Week. Mayor Don Warren joked about sweating after just 2,000 steps, attributing it to the humidity.
The purpose of their walk was to celebrate and recognize the often unnoticed initiatives in public health. George Roberts, CEO of the Northeast Texas Public Health District, highlighted the various roles that public health plays in ensuring the well-being of the community. From providing safe water to issuing food permits at restaurants, and administering life-saving immunizations, public health initiatives are critical for the health and safety of residents.
Mayor Warren acknowledged the importance of having an organization like NET Health, as it provides essential services that would be challenging for the city to handle internally. Teresa Byrd, dean of the UT Tyler School of Health Professions, emphasized the preventive nature of public health work. By working to prevent disease and promote health, public health professionals strive to keep communities safe and healthy without residents even realizing the impact of their work.
Public health efforts have significantly contributed to the increase in the average American lifespan over the years. The CDC credits 25 years of
