Activities and Responsibilities

Health Canada is engaged in various activities and has numerous responsibilities related to health.

Helping Canadians

Health Canada is responsible for helping Canadians maintain and improve their health. To carry out this responsibility, Health Canada supports activities that:

• Preserve and modernize Canada's health care system
• Enhance and protect the health of Canadians.
• Work in partnership with others, and
• Communicate health promotion and disease prevention

Preserving Canada's Health Care System

Health Canada manages health care costs by communicating health risks and promoting healthy lifestyles. We are constantly looking for ways to improve the system and ensure its sustainability for the future.

Enhancing the Health of Canadians

Health Canada encourages Canadians to enhance their health through active living. We provide surveillance, prevention, control and research of disease outbreaks across Canada and around the world. The Department also monitors health and safety risks related to the sale and use of drugs, food, chemicals, pesticides, medical devices and certain consumer products across Canada and around the world.

Partnering with Others

Health Canada partners closely with other federal departments, agencies, provincial/territorial governments and health organizations. Our partnerships enable Health Canada to ensure that its efforts meet the needs of all Canadians, including specific at-risk groups such as children and First Nations people.

Communicating with Canadians

The Department strives to communicate with the Canadian public about health promotion, disease prevention and safety messaging. Our intent is to help you make positive impacts on your health, the health and well-being of your friends and family and the community around you.