• Promoting Preventive Services for Adults 50-64: Community and Clinical Partnerships
  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in partnership with AARP, the American Medical Association (AMA), and the Gerontological Society of America (GSA), released a new report titled, "Promoting Preventive Services for Adults 50-64: Community and Clinical Partnerships."
• Communities Putting Prevention to Work
  CDC has announced a new initiative - Communities Putting Prevention to Work – which aims to reduce risk factors and prevent or delay chronic disease, and promote wellness in both children and adults. Find out more about the first two components of this initiative and the accompanying funding announcements.
• School-Based Dental Sealant Programs
  School-based sealant programs are important for reaching children at highest risk for tooth decay. New information on recommendations is available for practitioners in planning, implementing, and evaluating school-based sealant programs.

Chronic diseases—such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes—are the leading causes of death and disability in the United States. Chronic diseases account for 7 out of 10 deaths among Americans each year. These diseases also cause major limitations in daily living for one-fourth of people with chronic conditions. Although chronic diseases are among the most common and costly health problems, they are also among the most preventable. Adopting healthy behaviors such as eating nutritious foods, being physically active, and avoiding tobacco use can prevent or control the devastating effects of these diseases.

CDC’s National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion is at the forefront of the nation's efforts to prevent and control chronic diseases. The center conducts studies to better understand the causes of these diseases, supports programs to promote healthy behaviors, and monitors the health of the nation through surveys. Critical to the success of these efforts are partnerships with state health and education agencies, voluntary associations, private organizations, and other federal agencies. Together, the center and its partners are working to create a healthier nation.

Page last reviewed: September 25, 2009
Page last modified: November 19, 2009
Content source: National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion