ATSDR

The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) is a federal public health agency within the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Established in 1980 under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), often referred to as Superfund, ATSDR’s primary mission is to serve the public by understanding and preventing harmful exposures to hazardous substances from waste sites, as well as other sources. The agency focuses on health effects, environmental health assessments, and community engagement to mitigate risks associated with toxic substances.

ATSDR operates under the leadership of an Assistant Secretary for Health, who oversees its activities. The agency collaborates with state and local governments, tribes, and international partners to address public health concerns related to toxic exposures. Key functions include conducting health consultations, publishing scientific reports, and providing educational resources on hazardous substances. ATSDR maintains the Toxic Substances Portal, a comprehensive database offering information on chemical hazards, exposure pathways, and health effects.

The agency’s work is guided by principles of transparency and evidence-based decision-making. ATSDR prioritizes vulnerable populations, such as children, pregnant women, and low-income communities, in its research and outreach efforts. Through its Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (TSDR), ATSDR tracks and investigates health effects linked to environmental exposures, publishing findings in the *Public Health Statement* series. These documents summarize current knowledge about specific chemicals and their potential health impacts.

ATSDR also plays a role in emergency response, providing technical assistance during hazardous substance incidents. The agency’s research informs policy development, helping to shape regulations aimed at reducing exposure risks. With a commitment to public health protection, ATSDR continues to advance understanding of toxic substances while empowering communities with knowledge to make informed decisions.