Explore the transformative power of public health policies, from smoking bans to tackling global health crises.
In 2007, the UK’s pubs, restaurants and other enclosed public spaces underwent a radical change. Previously, many of these indoor venues accommodated smokers in some capacity – generally with designated smoking areas – but this was put to a stop by the 2007 nationwide smoking ban. This policy addressed concerns about the effects of smoking on public health, especially lung cancer and passive smoking.
Almost anyone who lived in the UK during this period could describe how noticeable the change was. Pub interiors suddenly became clear after decades of being shrouded in cigarette smoke. Air pollution in bars reduced by as much as 93% in the year following the ban. Society saw a dramatic shift in smoking habits, with many choosing to smoke outside in private spaces, too. An increasing number of children grew up in smoke-free households. The British Medical Journal estimated that, in the year following the ban, there were 1,200 fewer hospital admissions for heart attacks.
This impactful policy change is a prime example of public health in action. In 2024, the government is going even further, with proposals to annually raise the legal age of tobacco sale, as well as introduce new powers to restrict vape sales to children.
In the intricate tapestry of public health, policies stand out as the backbone, guiding principles, and strategies that enhance the wellbeing of entire populations. Whether it's tackling a pandemic, promoting vaccination, or de-normalising common unhealthy habits, public health policies play a crucial role in shaping positive social patterns and shifts.
Defining public health policy
So, what exactly is a public health policy? At its core, it can be defined as a set of decisions, plans, and actions undertaken by governments and other stakeholders to promote and protect the health of a population. These policies are informed by peer-reviewed scientific evidence, epidemiological data, and the pressing health needs of local communities. These needs and pitfalls will vary depending on the nation, its healthcare system, and factors such as dietary habits and socioeconomic status.
For example, the US state of Hawaii faces a worryingly high prevalence of obesity, with the latest figures showing that 26% of its adult population is obese. In the last decade, the percentage has gradually but steadily increased. Meanwhile, Zambia is tackling a deadly public health emergency due to cholera outbreaks.
While some public health issues are local to specific regions, others are much more complex, widespread, and challenging to tackle. These are often intrinsically linked to root causes such as climate change and warfare.
Key components of public health policy
Objectives
Public health policies should have clear goals with measurable objectives. They could involve reducing the burden of a specific disease, improving access to healthcare services, or promoting healthy lifestyles, for example. These objectives are the guiding stars that shape the entire policy framework.
Target populations
Policies must identify the groups or communities most affected by health disparities and inequalities. By focusing resources and interventions on these populations, policymakers strive to create a more equitable health system.
Strategies
From implementing vaccination programs to designing campaigns that help people quit smoking, strategies are the actionable steps taken to achieve policy objectives. These can range from educational initiatives to legislative measures.
Government and non-government organisations: A collaborative effort
The responsibility of shaping public health policies often falls on the shoulders of governments at various levels. National health departments, ministries, and agencies are instrumental in drafting, implementing, and evaluating these policies. Examples of these in the UK would be the UK Health Security Agency and the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities.
The role of non-governmental organisations (NGOs), research institutions, and advocacy groups is equally vital. These entities often provide valuable research, expertise, and community engagement, ensuring that policies are evidence-based and responsive to the needs of diverse populations. In the UK, organisations such as the Francis Crick Institute, the British Heart Foundation and Cancer Research play a key part in funding and spearheading the groundbreaking research that underpins public health efforts.
Charities such as Mind and Shelter are also crucial advocates for those who experience mental health issues and homelessness, often raising awareness of how they affect public health. They are instrumental in shedding light on potential solutions to these complex issues, and lobbying the UK government to shape policies that address them. Beyond the UK, organisations such as the World Health Organisation (WHO), Institut Curie in France and research centres allied under EU-LIFE are key players in international public health.
Challenges and trends in public health policies
In recent times, the world has witnessed the profound impact of global health crises, the most significant of which was the COVID-19 pandemic. This has underscored the importance of pandemic preparedness and the need for agile, science-backed policies. Similarly, the growing impact of the climate crisis calls for policies that address environmental health risks and promote sustainability.
Moreover, the debate around preventative health measures, particularly vaccines, has taken centre stage. Public health policies must navigate the delicate balance between promoting immunisation coverage and respecting individual rights, all while combating misinformation.
The role of a Public Health MSc
If you’re passionate about making a tangible difference in public health across the globe, a Public Health MSc can be a fantastic stepping stone towards your goals. This advanced degree equips students with the holistic knowledge, skills, and critical thinking necessary to understand, develop, and implement effective public health policies.
A Public Health MSc provides an in-depth exploration of key areas including epidemiology, biostatistics, health economics, and policy analysis. Together with like-minded professionals, you’ll learn how to assess health needs, design interventions, and evaluate the impact of policies on populations. This expertise could lead to new job opportunities in healthcare research, administration, leadership, and policymaking.
Why choose King's College London's online Public Health MSc?
If you're considering furthering your career in public health policy, our 100% online Public Health MSc gives you the flexibility to pursue world-class education without putting your career on hold. King's is ranked 10th globally for Clinical, Pre-Clinical and Health (Times Higher Education World Rankings 2023) and 12th for Life Sciences and Medicine (QS World Rankings 2023).
Whether you want to specialise in public health, global health or mental health, you can tailor your learning journey to focus on your specific interests.
We offer six core modules, which will equip you with the fundamental knowledge you’ll need to succeed in public health, no matter which avenues you choose to pursue. On top of these core modules, you’ll also pick from a range of six optional modules, which cover topics ranging from organisational leadership and management to health economics.
