Folkhälsovården

Folkhälsovården, a Swedish term, translates to public health care or public health services. It encompasses the collective efforts and structures aimed at promoting and protecting the health of the entire population. This broad field involves various activities and organizations, often coordinated by regional councils (landsting/regioner) and municipalities (kommuner) in Sweden.

The core mission of folkhälsovården is to prevent illness and injury and to create conditions that support good health for all citizens. This is achieved through a range of initiatives, including health promotion campaigns, disease prevention programs, health surveillance, and the provision of health information. It also involves addressing social determinants of health, such as living conditions, education, and employment.

Key areas of focus for folkhälsovården include improving dietary habits, increasing physical activity, reducing smoking and alcohol consumption, promoting mental well-being, and ensuring a safe environment. Furthermore, it plays a crucial role in vaccination programs and screening for various diseases. The aim is to reduce health inequalities and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to achieve their best possible health.