Programs-that-work: CDC's guide to effective programs that reduce health-risk behavior of youth

In response to requests from educators for effective programs that reduce health-risk behavior among youth, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention initiated "Programs-That-Work" (PTW) in 1992 to identify health education programs with credible evidence of effectiveness. CDC identified as PTW two programs to reduce tobacco use and eight programs to reduce sexual risk behaviors. Eligible programs undergo a two-step external review to examine quality of the research evidence and the extent to which the programs are practical for use by health educators. If CDC identifies a programs as a PTW on the basis of external review, the program is packaged and made available for dissemination to education and youth agencies. Communities ultimately make the decision about adopting a program, and CDC does not require their use. Thousands of educators have sought information about PTW through the CDC web site, informational brochures, and training.