Everything you need to know about the Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (Federal Centre for Health Education – BZgA)

The Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung, abbreviated BZgA, is one of Germany’s key government institutions specializing in public health promotion and prevention. It was founded in 1967, operates under the Federal Ministry of Health, and is headquartered in Cologne.

Mission and goals
BZgA aims to improve public health in Germany through education, prevention, and the dissemination of reliable scientific information. Its core goals include:

• Preventing chronic and infectious diseases

• Supporting a healthy lifestyle

• Strengthening mental health

• Providing clear, accessible scientific information for all age groups

Fields of work and programs
BZgA works across a wide range of health and social topics, including:

• Addiction prevention: Campaigns addressing smoking, alcohol, drugs, and medication misuse

• Sex education and reproductive health: Programs for young people, prevention of sexually transmitted infections, and information on contraception

• Nutrition and physical activity: Promoting balanced diets, exercise, and prevention of obesity and lifestyle-related diseases

• Mental health: Reducing stigma, supporting mental wellbeing, and offering guidance on stress and psychological pressure

• Organ and tissue donation: Raising awareness and providing reliable information on procedures and impacts

• Vaccination and infection prevention: Educational campaigns about immunization and protection against infectious diseases

Campaigns and projects
BZgA has launched widely known campaigns such as:

• “Keine Macht den Drogen” (“No power to drugs”)

• “Gib AIDS keine Chance” (“Don’t give AIDS a chance”)

• Projects promoting mental health and healthy nutrition in schools and universities

BZgA also produces educational and media materials including brochures, posters, videos, and dedicated websites for each topic to reach the broadest possible audience.

Funding and independence
BZgA is fully funded through Germany’s federal budget, which supports its independence in providing medical and scientific information free from commercial or promotional interests.

Cooperation with partners
BZgA collaborates with schools, universities, municipalities, medical associations, and health insurance providers to ensure information reaches different communities. It also works with international organizations to strengthen public health at European and global levels.

Social impact
BZgA is a cornerstone of Germany’s preventive health system, playing a crucial role in raising awareness and changing unhealthy behaviors. By offering diverse resources, it helps individuals make informed health decisions, improves quality of life, and contributes to reducing long-term healthcare costs.

Conclusion
The Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung represents a unique model of health education and prevention that combines science, transparency, and accessibility. Through ongoing campaigns, educational materials, and broad cooperation, it contributes to building a healthier and more informed society.

ـ* The writing and editorial team on the website strives to provide accurate information through extensive research and consultation of multiple sources when preparing articles. However, some errors may occur or certain information may be unconfirmed. Please consider the information as a preliminary reference and always consult the competent authorities for confirmed information.