Acknowledging Education Week

This is Education Week in Newfoundland and Labrador.  It offers the opportunity to reflect on the importance of education for people of all ages.  During our key informant interviews for the needs assessment, education comes up as an important factor. 

People with low levels of education suffer poorer health and well-being. Compared to non-graduates, high school graduates:

- use preventative medical services 11% more frequently
- make 2% fewer multiple visits to doctors
- have 23% better knowledge of health behaviours
- have 13% better general health status
- have 26% better family functioning (Federal, Provincial and Territorial Advisory Committee on Population Health, 1999).

So, Happy Education Week!  Embrace the opportunity to learn!