In which year was the CDC established?

• A. 1950
• B. 1940
• C. 1946
• D. 1965

Answer: (C)

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) was established in 1946, initially functioning as the Communicable Disease Center. Its primary purpose at that time was to combat malaria and other infectious diseases. Over the years, the CDC has evolved significantly, expanding its scope to address a wide range of public health issues beyond communicable diseases, including chronic disease prevention, emergency preparedness, and health promotion.

The establishment date of 1946 is crucial because it marks the beginning of organized efforts in the United States to protect public health through research and the development of health policies. This foundational year set the stage for the CDC to grow into one of the world’s leading public health institutes, impacting health not just in the U.S., but globally.