Prevention; A Blueprint for Action

April 2004 Prevention: A Blueprint for Action Over the past 100 years, our investment in research and technology has lead to unprecedented improvements in the lives of Americans. Life expectancy in the United States is at an all time high. Advances in medical treatment and care have dramatically reduced infant and childhood mortality and deaths from infectious diseases, trauma, and other acute medical emergencies. As a result of medical progress, individuals with chronic diseases are enjoying longer, more independent lives. Yet despite these achievements, complex chronic health problems persist in challenging us. Chronic diseases and conditions account for at least . . .