Leadership changes at federal health agencies are eroding trust in public health recommendations, with more Americans expecting to lose confidence than gain it, according to a recent poll. The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and the de Beaumont Foundation conducted a survey of over 3,300 Americans, finding that nearly half expected decreased trust in public health agencies.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is particularly vulnerable, with only 48% of respondents expecting improvement over the next four years, while 52% predicted decline. Democrats are more pessimistic about the CDC’s future, with 76% anticipating a decrease in effectiveness, compared to 57% of Republicans.
The public’s concerns are widespread, with many worried that politics will influence health recommendations (76%), programs will be scaled back (75%), or serious threats like infectious disease outbreaks will be downplayed (72%). Despite these fears, experts say most Americans still believe in public health efforts and want to make changes, not eliminate the agencies.
Rebuilding trust will require a lengthy effort and nuanced approach. Experts emphasize the need for clear communication, trusted voices, and accurate explanations of scientific uncertainty. They caution that mixed messaging and polarized leadership can exacerbate distrust.
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2025/04/29/trust-health-poll-harvard