Health & Nutrition:
Human Health

Current Situation

Mississippi State University Extension health programs focus on educating for a healthier population, collaborating for community health, and developing assets to improve rural health. Extension Health Education programs are delivered to the public by professional Extension agents and/or Master Health Volunteers. Master Health Volunteers are lay health educators who have been trained to share specific health information with others in their circles of influence.

Each year Extension programs reach thousands of families with health-related information and skills training. Programs address the effective utilization of healthcare, self-care skills for all ages, the prevention and early detection of chronic diseases, and care-giving for dependent children and elders. Healthy life skills education helps youth make good decisions, while adults learn how to deal effectively with emergencies and practice family safety.

Extension service agents and specialists also facilitate the work of numerous local health coalitions and statewide health organizations as they identify and work to address health concerns. Concerns might include resource deficits in the local health system, the prevalence of a specific injury or disease, or the economic impact of the healthcare business sector. Whatever the health issue, Extension fosters collaboration among interested, informed partners as an effective prescription for community vitality.

Extension Service works with youth who express interest in health careers through two major projects: the Rural Health Scholars program and the Mississippi Health Careers Guide publication. Support for these projects comes from our partnership with the Mississippi Rural Health Corps, a joint endeavor of Extension Service and the state's 15 community and junior colleges.

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Publications

MSUcares Human Health publications

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I get a diabetes self-study manual?
What health education programs are available through my Extension County Office?

Other Human Health Information

Chronic Disease Education
Community Health Coalitions
Taking Care of Yourself and Your Family
Organizing Your Health Care
Rural Health Programs and Partnerships
An Extension Service Health Education Model
National Extension Network for Health