Indian Association of Preventive and Social Medicine(IAPSM) was founded in 1974 as a result of increasing awareness of the importance of social and preventive medicine in India. Public health professionals and medical educators recognized the necessity of a dedicated platform to advance Community Medicine and preventive strategies. Over the years, the association has expanded its network to include thousands of public health professionals, researchers, academicians, and policymakers.

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Objectives of IAPSM

• Promoting public health awareness and education.
• Enhancing community medicine research and innovation.
• Supporting preventive healthcare measures to reduce disease burden.
• Advocating health policies and strategies for better healthcare outcomes.
• Organizing training programs and conferences for health professionals.
• Collaborating with national and international health agencies.
• Strengthening the public health workforce in India.

Organizational Structure

IAPSM operates through a decentralized structure comprising:

• National Executive Committee: Oversees the overall functioning and strategic direction of the association.
• State and Zonal Chapters: Implement IAPSM's objectives at regional levels, organizing conferences, workshops etc.
• Specialized Committees: Focus on specific areas such as infectious diseases, maternal and child health, and health systems.
• Academic Bodies: Manage fellowship programs, short courses, and other educational initiatives.

Key contributions of IAPSM

• Conducting epidemiological Studies
• Training and Educational courses to enhance skills in public health.
• Policy Advocacy: Collaborating MoHFW to shape public health policies.
• Public Health interventions and implementing community-based programs.

IAPSM actively promotes research in public health through its official journal – Indian Journal of Community Medicine (IJCM). The journal publishes peer-reviewed research articles, systematic reviews, case studies, and policy papers on various aspects of preventive and social medicine. It collaborates with national and international organizations such as WHO, UNICEF, IMA, NHM etc.

The Indian Association of Preventive and Social Medicine (IAPSM) remains a pillar in India's public health sector. Through its research, policy advocacy, and training initiatives, IAPSM continues to contribute significantly to preventive healthcare and Community Medicine. As India faces evolving health challenges, the association’s role in shaping public health policies and promoting health equity will be even more critical in the years to come. Strengthening its efforts will not only benefit healthcare professionals but also improve the overall health outcomes of the nation.