What is the first step in planning a health promotion program?

Understanding the issue is the foundational step in planning a health promotion program because it lays the groundwork for all subsequent activities. This involves comprehensively assessing the health problem at hand, identifying the target population, and examining relevant factors that influence health behaviors and outcomes. Gaining insight into the specifics of the issue—such as its prevalence, risk factors, and the social determinants of health—enables program planners to design an effective intervention tailored to the needs of the community.

This step also involves reviewing existing literature, data, and resources to ensure that the program is evidence-based and addresses the most pertinent health concerns. By fully grasping the complexities of the issue, planners can make informed decisions, engage relevant stakeholders, and ultimately develop a program that effectively targets the identified problem.

The other options, while essential components of program planning, follow after a thorough understanding of the issue has been established. Once the issue is clear, planners can then move on to evaluating the current status, setting specific objectives, and developing a comprehensive plan to tackle the health challenges identified.