IN PRAISE OF THE CDC
Because of the pandemic, representatives from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or CDC are in the news almost daily.
It feels important and right to take a moment to recognize and praise their unique mission in all its complexity.
The CDC is a unique agency with a unique mission. The CDC works 24/7 to protect the safety, health and security of America from threats here and around the world.
The CDC leverages its scientific expertise and data analyses to develop strategies that are a bold promise to the Nation in support of these priorities:
- Securing global health and domestic preparedness
- Eliminating disease
- Ending epidemics
Within these broad stroke priorities, the CDC galvanizes against many important healthy living initiatives, which get less publicity and cover concerns across all stages of life.
For example, the CDC has launched a Healthy Brain Initiative to improve our understanding of brain health as a central part of public health practice. The initiative was designed as a countermeasure to the impending public health burden of dementia, as evidenced by the fact that Alzheimer’s disease is:
- One of the top 10 leading causes of death in the United States.
- The 6th leading cause of death among US adults.
- The 5th leading cause of death among adults aged 65 years or older.
In 2014, an estimated 5 million Americans aged 65 years or older had Alzheimer’s disease. This number is projected to nearly triple to 14 million people by 2060.
The Healthy Brain Initiative creates and supports partnerships, collects and reports data, increases awareness of brain health and supports populations with a more pronounced burden of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.
In addition, the CDC has developed Healthy Brain Road Maps to enable state and local public health agencies and their partners to chart a course for action and change.
New initiatives like the Healthy Brain Initiative demonstrate CDC’s commitment to a “new level of preparedness” in the US and global health community, and we can be thankful for their 24/7 stewardship.
*
The Wisconsin Caregiver Academy offers two courses, designed to prepare caregivers for the unique challenges of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia and can contribute to the knowledge needed at a specialized provider. Completion of both courses earns a digital badge that can be displayed on a resume, social media or an email signature to demonstrate ongoing continuing education. Learn more.
*
RESOURCES:
“A Bold Promise to the Nation,” https://www.cdc.gov/about/24-7/index.html.