ZTC Resource & Course

This book offers an introduction to the foundations of public health for college students. It covers the history of the field, the structure of health systems, and the methods used to analyze population health. Key topics include prevention, determinants of health, mental health, substance use, environmental health, and the burden of disease. The text also explores healthcare reform, the roles of professionals and institutions, and issues of equity in aging, minority health, and emergency preparedness. By connecting history, policy, and practice, it provides students with a practical understanding of how public health works and why it matters.

“Introduction to Public Health” by Rodney Ragsdale and Jasara Gillette, Lemoore College, is licensed CC BY 4.0 unless otherwise indicated. This textbook has been adapted from “Introduction to Public Health” by Kristi Murphey, LinnBenton Community College, which was used and adapted with permission.