How did the federal government address issues of public health during the Progressive Era?

During the Progressive Era, the federal government responded to the growing concern over public health primarily by establishing sanitation standards. This was a critical time when urbanization led to overcrowded cities and posed significant public health challenges, such as outbreaks of diseases like tuberculosis and cholera.

To combat these issues, the government implemented various reforms aimed at improving sanitation, such as regulating the cleanliness of water supplies, waste disposal, and food safety practices. Legislative measures and the establishment of agencies helped to create guidelines that were intended to protect public health and promote hygienic living conditions. This focused approach was essential in reducing the spread of infectious diseases and improving overall community health, reflecting the Progressive commitment to social reform and the welfare of the populace.

The other options do not accurately represent the measures taken during this period, as the goal was to enhance public health through regulation and standards rather than introducing no regulations, decentralizing health services, or limiting access to urban areas.