Helsefarer

Helsefarer is a term used in Norwegian and Danish public health discourse to refer to hazards or dangers to human health arising from a wide range of sources. It is used to describe factors that increase the probability of adverse health outcomes for individuals or populations and is often employed in risk assessment, surveillance, and health communication.

Etymology and scope: The word combines helse (health) with farer (dangers). While not a formal stand-alone category in every national health system, it functions as a practical umbrella term for health risks. Helsefarer can encompass environmental, occupational, chemical, biological, physical, lifestyle, and psychosocial factors.

Applications: In practice, authorities and researchers identify helsefarer, assess exposure or probability of harm, and implement interventions to reduce or control risk. The concept supports prioritization in preventive measures, regulatory standards, and public awareness campaigns.

Examples: Air pollution, contaminated drinking water, occupational exposure to hazardous substances, infectious disease transmission, extreme heat, tobacco use, obesity, stress, and poor housing conditions are cited as health hazards within this framework.

See also: Related topics include health risk assessment, environmental health, occupational safety, public health surveillance, and health promotion.