Lester Breslow

American physician and public health leader

Lester Breslow (March 17, 1915 – April 9, 2012) was an influential American physician and public health leader known for his pioneering work in the field of public health and preventive medicine. His research significantly contributed to the understanding of the impact of lifestyle on health and longevity.

Early Life and Education

Lester Breslow was born in Bismarck, North Dakota. He pursued his undergraduate studies at the University of Minnesota, where he also earned his medical degree in 1938. Breslow later completed a Master of Public Health at the Harvard School of Public Health.

Career

Breslow's career in public health began during his service in the United States Army during World War II, where he worked on the prevention of infectious diseases. After the war, he joined the California Department of Public Health, where he conducted groundbreaking research on the relationship between lifestyle factors and health outcomes.

Research and Contributions

Breslow is best known for his work on the "Alameda County Study," which identified seven key health habits that were associated with increased longevity and reduced morbidity. These habits included not smoking, regular physical activity, moderate alcohol consumption, adequate sleep, maintaining a healthy weight, eating breakfast, and avoiding snacks.

The Ten Essential Public Health Services

His research demonstrated the importance of lifestyle choices in the prevention of chronic diseases, which was a significant shift from the traditional focus on infectious diseases. Breslow's work laid the foundation for modern preventive medicine and public health policies that emphasize healthy living.

Leadership and Advocacy

Breslow served as the president of the American Public Health Association and was a founding member of the American College of Preventive Medicine. He was a strong advocate for public health education and policy reform, emphasizing the role of community and environmental factors in health.

Ecologic Model of Health

Later Life and Legacy

In his later years, Breslow continued to teach and mentor students at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where he was a professor and dean of the School of Public Health. His work has had a lasting impact on public health practices and policies worldwide.

Breslow passed away in 2012 at the age of 97, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and dedication to improving public health.

Related Pages

• Public health
• Preventive medicine
• American Public Health Association
• University of California, Los Angeles