For more than 150 years, public health has dramatically transformed life expectancy and quality of life in the United States. Yet many of these once-unimaginable gains are now taken for granted. National Public Health Week (NPHW) 2026 will encourage all Americans to remember how public health has changed our lives. With the theme Ready. Set. Action! We encourage communities to acknowledge the gains of the past and identify next steps to make for an even healthier future. We will remind everyone of the simple truth: Good Health Doesn’t Just Happen. Return often to find even more information about our 2026 campaign!
Last year, our partners hosted 300 events across the country — a 163% increase from the previous year — helping us amplify the power of public health nationwide.
Last year’s 30th Anniversary Forum, held on April 7, 2025 is a great rewatch. Joel Bervell, MD, social media’s Medical Mythbuster, joined public health leaders in a powerful conversations on combating misinformation and shaping the future of public health.
What is NPHW?
Each April, APHA unites communities nationwide to celebrate NPHW, recognizing public health contributions and addressing key health issues. As the organizer for 30 years, APHA develops annual campaigns and resources to educate the public, policymakers, and practitioners on each year’s theme. These materials promote public health awareness year-round. Questions? Email us!
About APHA
The American Public Health Association advocates for the health of all communities, strengthens the public health profession, and drives science-based public health policies. With 150 years of leadership, APHA connects a broad member network and influences federal health policy. APHA publishes the American Journal of Public Health, The Nation’s Health, and hosts an Annual Meeting showcasing the latest research. Campaigns like Get Ready and NPHW reflect our commitment to creating the healthiest nation.