HHS to Merge CDC’s Chronic Disease Center into New Administration for a Healthy America
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has announced plans to fold the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) chronic disease center into the new Administration for a Healthy America. This move has raised concerns among experts about the potential impact on coordination with local health departments and efforts in chronic disease prevention.
Although chronic disease remains a significant public health challenge, the decision to merge the CDC’s center dedicated to its prevention has sparked alarm among agency insiders and public health officials nationwide.
The Trump administration’s proposed cuts to health spending are unprecedented, with experts noting a reduction of $11 billion in direct federal support and the elimination of 20,000 jobs at national health agencies that support local public health work. Additionally, there are proposals for further budget cuts.
Kennedy, a prominent figure in public health, has warned about the growing epidemic of chronic disease. However, the budget blueprint under consideration includes the closure of the C.D.C. center that focuses on prevention efforts.
Evidently, the impact of dismantling the CDC’s chronic disease center is concerning to public health experts who view the CDC as a gold standard for public health agencies.
The Preventing Chronic Disease (PCD) journal, established by the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, serves as a platform for researchers, practitioners, and policy makers to share information and knowledge to enhance public health through chronic disease prevention.
As discussions continue regarding the future of the CDC’s chronic disease center, the public health community remains vigilant in advocating for the importance of sustained efforts in chronic disease prevention.
