31 May 2006
The new head of Health Science at Monash University's Peninsula campus, Professor Helen Keleher, has been invited to join a World Health Organization committee.
The Women and Gender Equity Knowledge Network is part of the WHO's Commission on the Social Determinants of Health.
Professor Keleher attended her first meeting of the network in India in April.
The commission aims to help countries and global health organisations to act on the various social factors that can lead to ill health and health inequalities. It includes eight Knowledge Networks that bring together leading scientists and practitioners from around the world.
The networks have been asked to assess the effectiveness of international and in-country policies and programs designed to improve people's health, particularly in developing countries. Network reports will inform the commission's report to the WHO.
Professor Keleher will review the interventions designed to change attitudes to women and girls in communities and households.
She said improving social conditions was the most effective way to improve health and reduce inequalities around the world.
"Good medical care is vital, but unless the root social causes that undermine people's health are addressed, the opportunities for well-being will not be achieved," Professor Keleher said.
Professor Keleher took up her appointment at Monash University in February this year. She has previously worked at Deakin and La Trobe universities.
Her research interests include mental health promotion, primary health care and building capacity for health promotion in the workforce.
Professor Keleher will also expand her re search into community profiling -- looking at issues that promote or hinder healthy environments and that underpin the way in which health policy and promotion responds to communities' needs.
For more information contact Professor Keleher on +61 3 9904 4465 or Ms Diane Squires, Media Communications Office, on +61 3 9905 9315 or 0417 603 400.
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