National Prevention Strategy: Priorities

Americans aspire to live long, healthy, and productive lives; however, obesity, tobacco use, misuse of alcohol and other substances, and community stressors (e.g., job and home losses, discrimination, family separations, and violence) are serious threats to health. In addition, too many Americans do not receive the preventive services that help maintain health, prevent or delay the onset of disease, and reduce health care costs. Each year, injuries and chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes are responsible for millions of premature deaths among Americans. In 2005, 133 million Americans – almost one in two adults – had at least one chronic illness. Furthermore, injuries are the leading cause of death among infants, youth, and young adults.Most of these early deaths can be avoided, adding extra years of productivity and enjoyment for millions of people.

The Strategy’s seven priorities are designed to improve health and wellness for the entire U.S. population, including those groups disproportionately affected by disease and injury.

The seven Priorities are: