health.gov Blog

By: Don Wright, MD, MPH, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Health; Director, ODPHP The evidence is clear: being physically active is one of the most important things people can do to improve their health. Since 2008, the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans has been the go-to resource for policy makers and health professionals, providing evidence-based physical activity recommendations for all Americans...

​Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) are significant contributors to death and illness in the United States. People who have HIV but don’t know it are less likely to get the treatment and support services they need, and they are more likely to transmit the disease to others. To increase knowledge of HIV disease, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends routine, opt-out HIV testing in health care settings for everyone between ages 13 and 64.

This morning at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions, ADM Brett P. Giroir, Assistant Secretary for Health launched the second edition of the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans. The second edition is based on the latest scientific evidence that shows that physical activity conveys even more health benefits than previously known...