Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Definition

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is a national public health institute in the United States. It focuses on protecting public health through disease control, prevention, and education.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The CDC monitors and investigates outbreaks of infectious diseases to prevent their spread.
2. It provides guidelines for healthcare professionals on how to diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases.
3. The CDC conducts research to understand the epidemiology of various diseases and conditions.
4. It plays a critical role in emergency preparedness and response for public health threats.
5. The CDC collaborates with other international health organizations to improve global health security.

Review Questions

• What are the primary roles of the CDC in public health?
• How does the CDC contribute to controlling infectious disease outbreaks?
• In what ways does the CDC support healthcare professionals?

Related terms

Epidemiology:

The study of how diseases spread and can be controlled within populations.

Public Health Surveillance: The continuous, systematic collection, analysis, and interpretation of health-related data needed for planning, implementation, and evaluation of public health practice.

Pathogen:

A microorganism that can cause disease in its host.