CDC Director: No, We Didn't 'Ban' Words

CDC Director Dr. Brenda Fitzgerald took to Twitter to dispute claims that the agency is prohibted from using words such as "evidence-based," "fetus," and "transgender." According to Fitzgerald, there are "no banned words" at all at the CDC.

I want to assure you there are no banned words at CDC. We will continue to talk about all our important public health programs.

— Dr Brenda Fitzgerald (@CDCDirector) December 17, 2017

You may be understandably concerned about recent media reports alleging that CDC is banned from using certain words in budget documents. I want to assure you that CDC remains committed to our public health mission as a science- and evidence-based institution.

— Dr Brenda Fitzgerald (@CDCDirector) December 17, 2017

As part of our commitment to provide for the common defense of the country against health threats, science is and will remain the foundation of our work.

— Dr Brenda Fitzgerald (@CDCDirector) December 17, 2017

CDC has a long-standing history of making public health and budget decisions that are based on the best available science and data and for the benefit of all people—and we will continue to do so.

— Dr Brenda Fitzgerald (@CDCDirector) December 17, 2017

Fitzgerald called the reports that words were banned a "complete mischaracterization" regarding the budget process. Further, HHS will still use science.

HHS statement addressing media reports: "The assertion that HHS has 'banned words' is a complete mischaracterization of discussions regarding the budget formulation process. HHS will continue to use the best scientific evidence available to improve the health of all Americans."

— Dr Brenda Fitzgerald (@CDCDirector) December 17, 2017

HHS statement addressing media reports, continued: "HHS also strongly encourages the use of outcome and evidence data in program evaluations and budget decisions.”

— Dr Brenda Fitzgerald (@CDCDirector) December 17, 2017

Fitzgerald did not explain what exactly was mischaracterized by the reports.