Terveysvalistus

Terveyisvalistus, or health education, refers to planned and systematic efforts to inform, empower and enable individuals and communities to improve their health. It aims to increase health literacy, promote healthy behaviours, prevent disease and injuries, and reduce health inequities by providing accessible, evidence-based information and developing skills for healthy choices. Terveysvalistus draws on theories of learning and behavior change and is delivered across settings such as schools, workplaces, clinics, community organizations, and through media and digital platforms. Methods include information campaigns, curricula, workshops, counselling, media literacy, and peer education, often combining individual-focused advice with strategies to modify social and physical environments.

In public health, terveysvalistus is one component of health promotion, aligning with principles such as enabling people to take control of their health, mediating between different interests, and advocating for supportive policies (in line with the Ottawa Charter). It targets general populations and specific groups at higher risk, with attention to cultural appropriateness and language accessibility.

Evaluation in terveysvalistus covers process and impact outcomes, including knowledge, attitudes, self-efficacy, reported behaviours, and, when possible, health indicators. Challenges include misinformation, varying health literacy levels, cultural barriers, and resource constraints; effective programs emphasize community involvement, trust-building, and evidence-based content.

In Finland, the term terveysvalistus is commonly used within public health work, reflecting responsibilities of health authorities, educational institutions, and organizations to provide reliable information and develop life skills that support long-term well-being.