Public health is the science of preventive health of the general public. A public health physician is concerned with prevention of disease by promoting vaccinations and immunizations and other public health services. This physician may have a background in epidemiology, or environmental, behavioral or occupational health. The public health physician may also direct health programs for governmental or private agencies. This specialist analyzes community health trends, and may consult with other physicians, community organizations or welfare agencies.

Doctor density varies by specialty and location. Louisiana has 10 practicing public health doctors. Broken out by city, public health doctor density in Alexandria is 1, in Barksdale Afb is 1, in Fort Polk is 1, in Lafayette is 1, in Mandeville is 1, in Metairie is 1, in Monroe is 1, in New Orleans is 1, in River Ridge is 1, and in Shreveport is 1.

Louisiana was named after French King Louis XIV, and the state joined the union in 1812. Louisiana’s population is 4,523,628, and Baton Rouge is its capital city. Louisiana has rich cultural heritage that is celebrated at many festivals all over the state. Taste a variety of cuisines, including Cajun and Creole food. Listen to jazz or zydeco music in New Orleans, visit the French Quarter, attend the Mardi Gras in the spring, or take a steamboat trip down the Mississippi River.

According to 2005 Census estimates, Louisiana has a population of 4,523,628. Of this population, 1,132,763 are under the age of 18 and 528,837 are at or above the age of 65.