POH 105

This course is proposed as a series of lessons from the development of public health throughout history. Canadian and international perspectives will be considered. We will visit key developments and figures who played a role in developing modern public health programs and services. Certain core concepts of public health will emerge as learning outcomes.Each week of lectures will carry a theme exemplifying a pivotal historical development, accomplishment, or threat to public health. Topics will include the epidemiologic transition, origins of epidemiology and the history of sanitation, occupational health, vaccination, anti-vaccination, tobacco, road safety, HIV-AIDS, and the health of marginalized populations. Equity,diversity and inclusion issues will be visited directly and throughout coverage of course topics. The course is designed for non-majors, but can also provide vital historical context to health discipline majors. A crucial objective is to provide insight into the role of prevention in protecting health and longevity, and the efficiency conferred by preventive interventions.