President-elect Donald Trump has selected Dr. Martin Makary, a Johns Hopkins surgeon, as the new Food and Drug Administration commissioner. Trump stated that the FDA has lost the trust of Americans and needs to refocus on its primary goal as a regulator. Makary will work alongside Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who was nominated as health secretary, to address harmful chemicals in the food supply and drugs to tackle the Childhood Chronic Disease Epidemic.
The FDA is responsible for ensuring the safety, efficacy, and security of human and veterinary drugs, biological products, medical devices, and the nation’s food supply. Makary was born in Liverpool, England, and graduated from Bucknell University and Thomas Jefferson University. He also holds a Master of Public Health from Harvard University.
Makary is known for advocating for physician-led initiatives like The Surgical Checklist, which he developed at Johns Hopkins. He has received the Nobility in Science Award from the National Pancreas Foundation and various teaching awards. Currently, he leads the Evidence-Based Medicine and Public Policy Research Group at Johns Hopkins. Trump’s selection of Makary reflects a focus on improving the FDA’s role as a regulator and addressing public health concerns related to food and drug safety.
Photo credit
www.usatoday.com
