What is the main role of the Food and Drug Administration?

The main role of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is to assure the safety and effectiveness of drugs and medical devices. This responsibility encompasses the rigorous evaluation and approval processes that ensure products available to the public meet established safety standards and provide the intended therapeutic benefits.

The FDA is crucial in overseeing the development and testing of new pharmaceuticals and medical tools, which involves extensive clinical trials and post-market surveillance. By regulating these products, the FDA aims to protect public health, ensuring that the medications and devices that reach the market are safe for consumer use and effective for their intended purposes.

While the agency may influence aspects of public health and workplace safety indirectly, its primary focus remains on the safety and efficacy of medical products, which is reflected in the correct answer.