David Satcher, MD, has had a storied career that includes time as U.S. Surgeon General under two presidents, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and president of Morehouse Medical School in Atlanta.
While serving as surgeon general from 1998 to 2002, Satcher adopted what he called “Prescription for Healthy Living” that provides a great blueprint for all of us:
- 30 minutes of moderate exercise at least five times a week
- 5 servings of fruits and vegetables a day
- Avoidance of toxins – drugs and alcohol
- Responsible sexual behavior
- Daily participation in relaxing and stress-reducing activities
Today, Satcher heads the Satcher Health Leadership Institute at Morehouse. He is working to “develop a diverse group of public health leaders, foster and support leadership strategies, and influence policies and practices toward the reduction and ultimate elimination of disparities in health with the focus on neglected diseases and under-served populations, while giving priority to health promotion and disease prevention.”
Read more about Satcher’s work as a public health hero here.
