The agency has enacted aggressive measures to limit support to substance abusers and to re-evaluate assistance to children with mild emotional disabilities. Commissioner Shirley Chater also announced plans to overhaul the disability claims process, proposing sweeping reforms to make the system more user-friendly and efficient while making the right decision the first time. At a time of zero budget growth, AIDS funding was increased across the board, representing a 30 percent rise since 1993. The reorganized Office of AIDS Research developed a comprehensive plan to develop treatments, vaccines, and ultimately, a cure for HIV disease. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released public service announcements on the importance of delaying sex and the correct and consistent use of latex condoms.
Basic research is the foundation of good health.
This was an important year for research conducted and supported by the National Institutes of Health, especially in the area of genetics. Scientists discovered the genes responsible for many cases of hereditary colon cancer, inherited breast cancer, and the most common type of kidney cancer. Using a mouse model, researchers also isolated the gene for obesity and have pinpointed a nearly identical gene in humans. We're helping Americans improve their diet with new food labels. A December FDA study shows manufacturers have been very accurate in their food label claims, with 94 percent accuracy for fat content and 93 percent accuracy for calories.