As the new year unfolds, it’s time to reflect not only on living longer lives but on living healthier ones. While lifespan measures the years we live, health span focuses on the quality of those years—free from disease or disability. For communities of color facing systemic inequities, this distinction is particularly urgent.
In this thought-provoking op-ed for Forbes, Founding Dean Bernadette Boden-Albala explores how barriers like unequal access to care, chronic stress from discrimination, and inadequate social policies shorten both lifespan and health span. The piece offers actionable strategies to extend health span for everyone, emphasizing the power of preventive care, addressing social determinants of health, and investing in community-driven solutions.
Improving health span isn’t just about personal health—it’s a collective call to action. Let’s resolve to create a society where thriving, not just surviving, is possible for all. READ MORE.
Brittany Morey and research collaborators find that community health workers were the unsung heroes of the pandemic response. Published inthe journal Social Science & Medicine, the research emphasizes CHWs’ trusted community ties and their essential role in reducing health inequities, while calling for sustainable funding to support their vital roles. READ MORE.
Guiyun Yan has been named a Chancellor’s Professor of Population Health & Disease Prevention. Yan is a global health expert who drives innovative, locally tailored strategies to reduce vector-borne diseases.
Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition!
Black Americans are disproportionately affected by Alzheimer’s disease yet remain underrepresented in research. Karen Lincoln is addressing this disparity with a new NIH-funded research project that will develop socially and culturally aligned strategies for engaging Black communities in brain health research. READ MORE.
In a recent article, Tyler Wong, a current MPH student, examines the evolving challenges in public health perception. He discusses how the rapid spread of information across media platforms has transformed public health from an objective pursuit into a battlefield of competing ideologies.
Wong's insights shed light on the complexities faced by public health professionals in today's information landscape and underscore the importance of effective communication strategies to counter misinformation. READ MORE
Zixia (Vincent) Wang, a PhD student in Public Health, donated two traditional Chinese art banners that symbolize preventative care and community well-being, which are now displayed in the Dean’s Suite.
Wang's gift underscores the integration of cultural wisdom into modern public health practices, reminding us to engage with diverse communities respectfully and meaningfully. READ MORE
Meet Theodore Gideonse, associate dean for undergraduate education & professor of teaching of health, society, & behavior. His journey into public health began during his PhD research, where he witnessed how marginalized communities, including those living with HIV, were impacted by inequities in healthcare systems. This experience shaped his passion for teaching and mentoring the next generation of health professionals.
Gideonse believes public health forms the foundation of all health fields—providing the data, policies, and infrastructure essential to addressing global challenges like climate change and technology’s impact on health.
As we mark theFirst 100 Days of Wen Public Health, Gideonse reminds us: “Learn the history of public health. Understanding why we do what we do is essential to creating meaningful change.”
"If we can resource people and close the gap in inequities, especially that we see in Orange County, that's going to always make us better able to handle the inevitable exposures that will enter pregnancy.”
- Developmental neuroscientist and brain health expert, Kristina Uban, associate professor of health, society, & behavior
Have you ever dreamed of studying public health abroad? This summer, join the Bali Public Health Study Abroad Program and gain hands-on experience while immersing yourself in the beauty of Bali, Indonesia!
Work with an NGO to investigate, monitor, and identify health problems and hazards in local Balinese communities.
Learn at the prestigious Bali Institute, a world-class center for education and cultural exchange.
Earn up to 10 UCI credits while only paying for 8.
Gain Practical Experience by observing and participating in various public health activities.
