The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is a United States federal agency under the Department of Health and Human Services. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, the CDC is the leading national public health institute of the United States. It was founded in 1946 and employs over 20,000 people. The CDC's mission is to protect America from health, safety and security threats, both foreign and in the U.S. The agency focuses on controlling and preventing disease, injury, and disability in the U.S. and internationally through surveillance, investigations, and prevention initiatives. The CDC also works to promote healthy living and reduce health disparities.