Health priorities in the city of Novi Sad

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Health is the expression of two mutually related aspects of the socioecological system--health balance and health potential, which integrate the main aspects of the socioecological paradigm. RESPONSIBILITY FOR HEALTH: Individuals, families, community members and the local government are of special importance for public health in the city of Novi Sad. Their partnership and collaboration are the key elements of successful public health practices and reduction of health inequalities. HEALTH STATUS OF THE POPULATION OF THE NOVI SAD: Indicators of health status and follow-up of the population of Novi Sad (sample included the population aged 24-74, part of the WHO MONICA project), point to low population growth rate, accelerating trend ofpopulation aging, high prevalence of chronic non-communicable diseases and behavioral and biological risk factors related with non-communicable diseases (smoking, physical inactivity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol level). STRATEGY FRAMEWORK FOR HEALTH PROMOTION: At present situation, in the health policy and in the health care system of the city of Novi Sad, priority has been given to prevention programs and projects aimed at health promotion. CONCLUSION: Effective implementation qf health promotion and prevention programs and projects, followed by close cooperation of medical and non-medical experts, as well as organizations and institutions, is a good base for achieving the main goal--Health for All in the 21st Century.