Health communication takes on new dimensions at CDC.
Actions by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to integrate health communication into overall prevention programs as a means of influencing individual behavior to reduce risks to health are described. These actions include a set of 5-year goals for the Agency; a proposal to establish an Office of Health Communication to provide leadership and support for accomplishing the goals; and establishment of a working group to create the proposed Office of Health Communication and to develop a framework for accomplishing the goals. Fundamental to the policy was development of a definition of health communication as the Agency would practice it. Steps taken to reach this definition are outlined as well as the 10 steps adopted as a framework for health communication. The article concludes with a statement describing communication as a part of CDC's overall mission. The hope is that the ultimate accomplishment will be increased awareness among Americans of the importance of good health and their ability to achieve it.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333.
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D002487:Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S. / Q000458:organization & administration*; D003142:Communication; D006293:Health Promotion; D006801:Humans; D008389:Marketing of Health Services; D009937:Organizational Objectives; D014481:United States