BD Honored as One of 'America's Most Admired Companies' in FORTUNE Magazine's Annual Rankings

Earns Top Industry Rankings in Four Key Areas - Social Responsibility, Quality of Management, Financial Soundness and Quality of Products and Services

FRANKLIN LAKES, N.J., March 9 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company) (NYSE: BDX) was recognized by FORTUNE magazine as one of "America's Most Admired Companies," taking top honors in the Medical Products and Equipment industry for social responsibility, quality of management, financial soundness and quality of products and services.

Overall, BD ranked second in its industry, which represents the Company's strongest showing in this prestigious report on corporate reputations.

To develop the rankings, FORTUNE and its survey partner, Hay Group, asked executives, directors and analysts to rate companies in their respective industries on eight key criteria. A total of 616 companies in 68 industries were surveyed during the fourth quarter of 2006.

"BD is proud to be recognized again by its peers and competitors as one of the most admired companies in America," said Edward J. Ludwig, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer. "This honor reflects the passion and commitment of our 27,000 associates worldwide who help provide great performance for our customers and shareholders, make great contributions to society and make BD a great place to work. Each day, they truly help BD pursue its purpose of helping all people live healthy lives."

BD works to address unmet global healthcare needs through sustainable business efforts and development of pioneering technologies as well as partnerships with philanthropic, government and nongovernmental organizations.

About BD

BD, a leading global medical technology company that manufactures and sells medical devices, instrument systems and reagents, is dedicated to improving people's health throughout the world. BD is focused on improving drug therapy, enhancing the quality and speed of diagnosing infectious diseases, and advancing research and discovery of new drugs and vaccines. The Company's capabilities are instrumental in combating many of the world's most pressing diseases. Founded in 1897 and headquartered in Franklin Lakes, New Jersey, BD employs approximately 27,000 people in approximately 50 countries throughout the world. The Company serves healthcare institutions, life science researchers, clinical laboratories, industry and the general public. For more information, please visit http://www.bd.com.

SOURCE BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company)