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Prevention research and its interface with policy: defining the terms and challenges
1Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Health, PHS/DHHS, Washington, D.C. 20201.
Preventive Medicine
|September 1, 1994
Summary
The United States leads in disease detection, treatment, and prevention research. Advances in genetics, diagnostics, and public health strategies offer opportunities for future health care reform and improved medical services.
Area of Science:
- Medical Research
- Public Health
- Genetics and Molecular Biology
Background:
- The United States has a strong history of medical research and innovation.
- Significant progress has been made in disease prevention and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the contributions of US research to public health.
- To identify opportunities for strengthening the health system through research.
Main Methods:
- Review of historical achievements in disease detection, treatment, and prevention.
- Analysis of the role of basic research in genetics and molecular biology.
- Examination of diagnostic and therapeutic intervention development.
Main Results:
- Virtual elimination of nutrient deficiency diseases.
- Dramatic reductions in vaccine-preventable childhood diseases.
- Significant gains against heart disease and stroke.
- Leadership in basic research and development of medical interventions.
Conclusions:
- US health research is a strong foundation for health care reform.
- Continued investment in research, particularly in disease prevention, is crucial.
- Opportunities exist to improve the application of medical services through informed research.