title: CDC's 60th anniversary: director's perspective--James O. Mason, M.D., Dr.P.H., 1983-1989.
abstract: The growing momentum toward expanding CDC's responsibilities beyond infectious diseases gained strength during the 1980s. Tremendous advances in controlling infectious diseases had dramatically reduced illness and death from many long-standing health threats. In addition, the detrimental effects of chronic and other noncommunicable diseases on the nation's health were rapidly increasing. Programs to address cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and other leading killers became central to CDC's focus. Yet, for much of this decade, a newly emerging infectious disease would demand the skills and talents of persons across the agency. These new responsibilities led to additional funding, programs, staff, and partnerships for the growing agency, while introducing a host of new challenges.
authors.forename: James O
authors.initials: JO
authors.lastname: Mason
mesh_terms: D002487:Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S. / Q000266:history* / Q000458:organization & administration; D003140:Communicable Disease Control / Q000266:history*; D049673:History, 20th Century; D006801:Humans; D014481:United States