National Health Education Week

History of National Health Education Week

Created in 1995, National Health Education Week has worked to raise awareness of the importance of health education specialists and their contribution to consumer wellness as well as educate the next generation of students. People in this profession provide knowledge, skills, and training to complement health providers, policy makers, human resource personnel, educators, and other professionals that impact human wellness.

The purpose of health education is to improve the health status of people, communities, and the nation. Educators work to strengthen the quality of life for all individuals and reduce premature deaths and disabilities. When health education specifically focuses on prevention, it helps lower the financial burden spent on medical treatment. Chronic conditions, like diabetes, Crohn’s disease, and cancer make up more than 75% of all money spent on health care in the United States alone each year. Educating the masses in health literacy is a large component of health status within the country. Without this subject being taught by education specialists, members of omitted communities can be negatively affected.

Each day of National Health Education Week focuses on a different health education topic. The first day ensures that the week starts out on a strong note. Monday, October 21 is dedicated to championing health for vulnerable populations through advocacy. This first day focuses on groups who are historically ignored and silenced and had their trust violated in regards to their economic status, educational opportunities, environmental safety, and lack of health care access. Trauma, socio-economic status, and discrimination are all factors that can lead to the risk of developing a chronic disease.

National Health Education Week timeline

1953

Department of Health

The Cabinet-level Department of Health, Education, and Welfare (HEW) was created under President Eisenhower.

1935

Social Security Act

The Social Security Act passed — providing funding for local health departments.

1922

First university health education program began

The first academic program teaching health education was launched at Columbia University in New York City.

1913

American Cancer Society

Ten doctors and five laypeople founded the American Cancer Society in New York. It was initially called the American Society for the Control of Cancer.

1911

County health departments

First county health departments established in Guilford County, North Carolina and Yakitna County, Washington.

National Health Education Week FAQs

When is National Health Education Week?

National Health Education Week 2026 runs from Tuesday, October 20, through Saturday, October 24, focusing on empowering individuals with crucial health knowledge.

How many health educators are there in the U.S.?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported approximately 59,000 health education specialists and community health workers in 2024, with growth projected to continue.

What is the purpose of health education?

Health education aims to provide individuals and communities with the knowledge and skills needed to make informed decisions about their well-being. It covers topics from disease prevention to healthy lifestyles.

Who sponsors National Health Education Week?

National Health Education Week is co-sponsored by the Society for Public Health Education (SOPHE) and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, emphasizing public-private partnership.

How to Observe National Health Education Week

Be an advocate

Public policy has a significant impact on our overall health. Pay a visit to your local, state, or federal officials and let them know that they need to understand how their votes matter when it comes to promoting good health.

Be a social butterfly

National Health Education Week employs a social media campaign to bring attention to health education. A number of social tools are available for individuals to get involved online to promote the importance of health education.

Get a checkup

Haven't had a health checkup in a while? Call your doctor and get that annual checkup to make sure your health is in good shape. Get curious about your health and feel free to ask your doctor about how to maintain a healthier life.

5 Key Players In Public Health

Blake Mycoskie

The founder of TOMS does more than just donate shoes. He also funds important health campaigns across the globe.

Helen Clarke

The first female administrator of the UN Development Program is an advocate for elderly and women's issues.

Margaret Chan

Director General of the World Health Organization, she managed the outbreak of SARS in Hong Kong in 2002.

Michelle Obama

The former First Lady has used her high profile to promote children's health and address the issue of childhood obesity.

Seyi Oyesola

The anesthesiologist and critical care physician is an advocate for increased access to medical care in rural parts of Africa.

Why National Health Education Week is Important

Education is best

The more we know about our health the better we can take care of ourselves. National Health Education Week promotes deeper understanding of our health issues and encourages us to rely on health care educators to stay informed.

Educators are important

National Health Education Week reminds us of the importance of health care educators and the contribution they make to the health of our communities. Educators share critical knowledge that can help us live healthier lives.

Opportunities for action

This national event provides opportunities for citizens to get involved in promoting good health. Each day of the week focuses on a different theme, such as gun violence, or the impact of inequality on individual health.

National Health Education Week dates

Year	Date	Day
2025	October 20–24	Monday–Friday

National Health Education Week – October 20, 2026

History of National Health Education Week

National Health Education Week timeline