Broad national goals, expressed as reductions in overall death rates or days of disability, have been established as guidelines for private and public sector policy makers in health-related fields. These goals were established through the work of various agencies, organizations, and individuals participating in a Department of Health and Human Services effort. Health priority areas have been set for five major life stages: infancy, childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and old age. This volume sets out specific and quantifiable objectives for the attainment of these goals. Objectives are established for controlling and promoting understanding of: (1) high blood pressure; (2) family planning; (3) pregnancy and infant health; (4) immunization; (5) sexually transmitted diseases; (6) fluoridation and dental health; (7) surveillance and control of infectious diseases; (8) smoking; (9) misuse of alcohol and drugs; (10) physical fitness and exercise; (11) control of stress and violent behavior; (12) toxic agents; (13) occupational safety and health; (14) accident prevention and injury; and (15) nutrition. In discussing each of these subjects, the nature and status of the problem is set forth. Prevention and control measures and specific objectives for 1990 are considered, and the principal assumptions that underlie the framing of the objectives are outlined. The data necessary for tracking progress at the national and local levels are listed. (JD)