Public health, a foundational pillar of societal well-being, is a multidisciplinary field dedicated to protecting and improving the health of populations. From controlling infectious diseases to addressing the social determinants of health, public health initiatives have shaped global life expectancy and quality of life. This paper presents a comprehensive overview of the scope, history, key functions, and contemporary challenges in public health. Special focus is given to the evolution of health systems, emerging threats such as pandemics and climate change, and the critical role of health equity. Strategies and innovations, including digital health, community engagement, and evidence-based policy, are explored to understand how public health is adapting in the 21st century.
Published Date: 2025-03-31; Received Date: 2025-02-01