The NIH, established in 1887 and based in Bethesda, Maryland, is the largest public funder of biomedical research in the world, investing over $32 billion annually. It conducts its own scientific research and provides funding to non-NIH research facilities. With 27 separate institutes and centers, the NIH conducts research in various disciplines of biomedical science and has made significant scientific accomplishments, such as the discovery of fluoride for tooth decay prevention and the development of vaccines against hepatitis and human papillomavirus. The NIH aims to promote scientific integrity, public accountability, and social responsibility in the conduct of science while advancing knowledge in areas such as disease diagnosis, prevention, and cures, human growth and development, and the effects of environmental contaminants.