National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week is October 22-28 Exposure to lead can cause serious harm to the brain, nervous system, and reproductive system. Infants and young children are especially vulnerable to lead dust exposure. During National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week (NLPPW), October 22-28, Harris County Public Health’s (HCPH) Lead Poisoning Prevention Program (LPP) continues to educate and raise awareness about childhood lead poisoning. Through the Lead Abatement Program, HCPH also works to provide lead-free housing […]
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Addressing the Soaring Suicide Rates Among Black Adolescents
Two University of Houston Studies Suggest Solutions Must Contain Black Voices in Research Grim statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on suicide among young people indicate that Black youth under 13 are twice as likely to die by suicide compared to their white peers, and the suicide death rate among Black youth is increasing faster than any other racial or ethnic group. The disturbing reality leads scientists to wonder if Black […]
Sexual Health Matters
September is Sexual Health Awareness Month – Take Charge of Your Sexual Health! September is Sexual Health Awareness Month, a crucial initiative to raise awareness about the significance of sexual health and well-being. This annual observance reminds individuals and couples to prioritize their sexual health and foster open, honest conversations about intimacy. Avoiding these conversations can lead to future problems for sexual partners. Sexual Health Awareness Month is not just about discussing the prevention of […]
Prostate Cancer is One of the Most Common Cancers Among Men
September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month – Get Screened! As September marks Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, Harris County Public Health (HCPH) wants to raise awareness about prevention to reduce the impact of this prevalent disease. Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men, but the risk can be significantly reduced through early detection and informed lifestyle choices. Prostate cancer affects the prostate gland, a small organ located below the bladder in men. The prostate […]
Breastfeeding Builds Stronger Communities
August is National Breastfeeding Month August is National Breastfeeding Month. Harris County Public Health (HCPH) aims to educate and raise awareness about the numerous benefits of breastfeeding while encouraging support for breastfeeding persons across the United States. Many parents want to breastfeed their babies but often stop early because they don’t receive enough support. Certain factors can make a big difference in how long babies are breastfed. According to the Centers for Disease Control and […]
Vaccines Save Lives! August is National Immunization Awareness Month
HCPH reminds parents to ensure their children are up-to-date on all their vaccines August has been designated as National Immunization Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of vaccinations for individuals of all ages. Vaccines protect children and play a vital role in safeguarding adults, keeping communities healthy and thriving. Routine vaccinations ensure children stay healthy, remain in school, and are prepared for successful learning experiences. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) saw […]
Take Extra Precautions to Avoid Drowning Accidents
More children between the ages of 1 to 4 die from drowning than any other cause of death Summer is just around the corner! Swimming and splashing around in the pool, lake or beach is a great way to keep cool in Houston’s summer heat. However, if precautions are not taken, a young child can drown quickly and silently. In observance of National Water Safety Month this May, Harris County Public Health (HCPH) reminds you to […]
Today is World Malaria Day – Zero Malaria Starts with Us!
Malaria Infects Approximately 2,000 Americans Each Year Every year, April 25th marks World Malaria Day – a day to recognize the global efforts to combat one of the world’s deadliest diseases. Malaria is a serious disease caused by a parasite that is transmitted to humans through mosquito bites. With temperatures on the rise and with mosquito season upon us, Harris County Public Health (HCPH) wants to encourage residents to take precautions. According to the Centers for Disease Control […]
Improving health through access to, and knowledge of, nutritious foods
By Alvin Tan, M.D., Internal Medicine Physician, Kelsey-Seybold Clinic – West Grand Parkway Food insecurity, the inability to access sufficient and nutritious food for an active, healthy life, isn’t just a problem in underdeveloped countries. In Texas, 13.3% of households were unable to provide adequate food for one or more household members due to lack of resources between 2018 and 2020, compared to the national average of 10.7%, according to America’s Health Rankings’ recently released […]
Harris County Public Health Receives $25 Million Grant Award from the CDC to Strengthen Its Workforce
Grant Will Support HCPH’s Additional Staffing and Professional Development The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) awarded a $25 million grant to Harris County Public Health (HCPH) to expand on HCPH’s workforce, staff development activities, and community capacity building. The award was accepted this afternoon by the Harris County Commissioners Court. “These dollars are an investment in both our community and in our public health workforce. Our public health sector has been hit hard […]