Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Overview

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is a national public health institute in the United States. It is a federal agency, under the Department of Health and Human Services, and is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. The CDC conducts and supports health promotion, prevention and preparedness activities in the United States, with the goal of improving overall public health.

A large, modern building with the sign "Centers for Disease Control and Prevention" in front.

History

The CDC was established in 1946 as the Communicable Disease Center, with the primary mission of fighting malaria. Over the years, the CDC has expanded its focus to include a wide range of health threats, from infectious diseases like Ebola and Zika, to chronic diseases like obesity and diabetes, to environmental health concerns like air quality and water safety.

Organization and Structure

The CDC is organized into "Centers, Institutes, and Offices" (CIOs), each of which is responsible for addressing a particular set of public health challenges. These CIOs are grouped into four main areas: Infectious Diseases, Noncommunicable Diseases, Health Promotion, and Public Health Scientific Services.

Functions and Activities

The CDC's functions and activities are wide-ranging, but they all support the agency's mission of protecting public health. This includes conducting research into disease and injury prevention; providing timely health information to protect the nation from dangerous health threats; and promoting healthy and safe behaviors, communities, and environments.

Impact and Influence

The CDC's work has had a significant impact on public health in the United States and around the world. Its efforts have led to reductions in the incidence of many diseases, improvements in overall health outcomes, and increased longevity.

Criticisms and Controversies

Like any large organization, the CDC has faced its share of criticisms and controversies over the years. These have ranged from concerns about the agency's handling of specific disease outbreaks, to broader questions about its priorities and effectiveness.