The Arizona Department of Health Services will hold a public meeting on Thursday, Feb. 1, to discuss the state’s plan for using a $1.2 million federal block grant to fund health promotion, disease prevention, and rape prevention programs.

The meeting is scheduled for 3 p.m. at the Arizona Department of Health Services, 150 N. 18th Ave.

ADHS has received preventive health block grant funds from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention since 1984 to pay for prevention programs targeting major chronic illnesses, injuries and infectious diseases.

In 2007, the Arizona grant will fund education and prevention programs for physical activity promotion, falls prevention for older adults, dental caries prevention, and sun safety. These programs are run by ADHS and through contracts with county health departments and community-based organizations. The funds also are used for public information and data collection.

The public is invited to comment on how the funds are being used. For more information, call (602) 364-2401.