Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

United States national public health institute

The CDC's Clifton Road campus in 1963

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is the national public health institute of the United States. It is a federal agency under the Department of Health and Human Services and is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. The CDC's primary goal is to protect public health and safety through the control and prevention of disease, injury, and disability in the US and internationally.

History

The CDC was founded in 1946 as the Communicable Disease Center, a branch of the United States Public Health Service. Its initial focus was on fighting malaria by spraying insecticides and conducting research. Over the years, the CDC expanded its scope to include all communicable diseases, chronic diseases, occupational health, and environmental health.

The Arlen Specter Headquarters Building

In 1970, the agency was renamed the Center for Disease Control, and in 1992, it became the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, although the acronym CDC remained the same. The CDC has played a crucial role in responding to public health emergencies, including the HIV/AIDS epidemic, the H1N1 influenza pandemic, and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Organization

The CDC is organized into several centers, institutes, and offices, each focusing on different aspects of public health. These include the National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, among others.

CDC Headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia

The CDC is led by a director, who is appointed by the President of the United States. The director oversees the agency's operations and sets strategic priorities.

Functions

The CDC's primary functions include:

• Conducting research and providing information on infectious and non-infectious diseases.
• Developing and implementing disease prevention and control strategies.
• Providing guidance and support to state and local health departments.
• Monitoring and responding to public health emergencies.
• Promoting health and safety in the workplace.

Facilities

The CDC's main campus is located in Atlanta, Georgia, with additional facilities across the United States. The agency's laboratories and offices are equipped to handle a wide range of public health challenges.

The Tom Harkin Global Communications Center

Leadership

The CDC has been led by several notable directors who have contributed to its mission and growth. Some of the past directors include:

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  David J. Sencer
• 

  Louis L. Williams
• 

  Mark D. Hollis
• 

  Raymond A. Vonderlehr
• 

  Justin M. Andrews

Impact

The CDC has had a significant impact on public health in the United States and around the world. Its work in disease prevention, health promotion, and emergency response has saved countless lives and improved the quality of life for many people.

Related pages

• World Health Organization
• National Institutes of Health
• Public health
• Epidemiology