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About the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

CDC Headquarters Exterior

The headquarters of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, Ga.

The program is managed by the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE) under an agreement between the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).

The CDC collaborates to create the expertise, information, and tools that people and communities need to protect their health – through health promotion; prevention of disease, injury and disability; and preparedness for new health threats.

The CDC seeks to accomplish its mission by working with partners throughout the nation and the world to:

  • monitor health
  • detect and investigate health problems
  • conduct research to enhance prevention
  • develop and advocate sound public health policies
  • implement prevention strategies
  • promote healthy behaviors
  • foster safe and healthful environments
  • provide leadership and training

Those functions are the backbone of the CDC’s mission. Each of the CDC’s component organizations undertakes these activities in conducting its specific programs. The steps needed to accomplish this mission are also based on scientific excellence, requiring well-trained public health practitioners and leaders dedicated to high standards of quality and ethical practice.