Advocacy (for health)

Slovak term: Slovenský termín

1. A continuous and adaptive process of gathering, organizing and formulating information into arguments to be communicated through various interpersonal and media channels, with a view to raising resources or gaining political and social leadership acceptance and commitment (Water Supply and Sanitation Collaborative Council and WHO 2005).
2. Public support for or recommendation of a particular cause or policy. (Oxford Dictionary 2005)

Explanation

Such action may be taken by and/or on behalf of individuals and groups to create living conditions which are conducive to health and the achievement of healthy lifestyles. Advocacy is one of the three major strategies for health promotion and can take many forms including the use of the mass media and multi-media, direct political lobbying, and community mobilization through, for example, coalitions of interest around defined issues. Health professionals have a major responsibility to act as advocates for health at all levels in society (WHO 1998).

References

• Water Supply and Sanitation Collaborative Council and WHO (2005) Sanitation and Hygiene Promotion: Programming guidance.
• Oxford Dictionary of English (2005). Second Edition. Oxford University Press
• WHO (1998) Health promotion glossary. WHO/HPR/HEP/98.1

Links

• WHO — The Health and Environment Lexicon