Edgar Schoen

Edgar Schoen

Name	Edgar Schoen
Birth name
Birth date	(1925-03-10)10 March 1925
Birth place	New York City, New York, United States
Death date	23 August 2016(2016-08-23) (aged 91)
Death place	Piedmont, California, United States
Alma mater
Occupation	Pediatrician, Professor
Years active
Organization
Known for	Advocacy for neonatal circumcision
Notable works
Spouse(s)
Website

Edgar J. Schoen (March 10, 1925 – August 23, 2016) was a prominent American pediatrician and professor known for his advocacy of neonatal circumcision. He served as the Chief of Pediatrics at Kaiser Permanente in Oakland, California and was a clinical professor at the University of California, San Francisco.

Early Life and Education

Edgar Schoen was born in New York City in 1925. He attended Columbia University, where he completed his undergraduate studies. He then pursued a medical degree at the New York University School of Medicine, graduating in 1949. Following his graduation, Schoen completed his residency in pediatrics at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF).

Career

Schoen began his career in pediatrics at Kaiser Permanente in Oakland, California, where he eventually became the Chief of Pediatrics. He was also a clinical professor at UCSF, where he taught medical students and residents.

Advocacy for Circumcision

Schoen was a vocal advocate for neonatal circumcision, arguing that the procedure had significant health benefits, including a reduced risk of urinary tract infections, penile cancer, and sexually transmitted infections. He chaired the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Task Force on Circumcision in 1989, which released a statement supporting the procedure.

Publications and Research

Throughout his career, Schoen published numerous articles and studies on the benefits of circumcision. His work was often cited in discussions and debates on the topic, and he was frequently invited to speak at medical conferences.

Controversy

Schoen's strong stance on circumcision was not without controversy. Critics argued that the procedure was unnecessary and carried risks. Despite the debate, Schoen remained steadfast in his position, citing scientific evidence to support his claims.

Personal Life

Edgar Schoen was married and had children. He was known for his dedication to his family and his passion for medicine. He passed away in 2016 in Piedmont, California.

Legacy

Schoen's work in pediatrics and his advocacy for circumcision have left a lasting impact on the field. His contributions to medical education and public health continue to be recognized by his peers and successors.

Also see

• Neonatal circumcision
• American Academy of Pediatrics
• Pediatrics
• University of California, San Francisco