Joseph LaDou

Joseph LaDou (1936-2017) was an American physician and a pioneer in the field of occupational medicine. He was known for his work in promoting the health and safety of workers, particularly in the semiconductor industry.

Early Life and Education[edit | edit source]

Joseph LaDou was born in 1936 in San Francisco, California. He completed his undergraduate studies at the University of California, Berkeley, and went on to earn his medical degree from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). He completed his residency in internal medicine at UCSF and a fellowship in occupational medicine at Harvard University.

Career[edit | edit source]

LaDou began his career as a primary care physician in San Francisco. He later became interested in occupational medicine, a field that focuses on the prevention and treatment of job-related injuries and illnesses. He was particularly concerned about the health risks faced by workers in the semiconductor industry, which uses a variety of toxic chemicals in its manufacturing processes.

In 1985, LaDou founded the International Center for Occupational Medicine (ICOM) at UCSF. The center was dedicated to improving the health and safety of workers around the world. Under LaDou's leadership, ICOM conducted research, provided training, and advocated for stronger occupational health regulations.

LaDou was also a prolific writer and editor. He served as the editor-in-chief of the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine for many years, and he wrote or edited several books on occupational health, including the widely used textbook Current Occupational and Environmental Medicine.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

LaDou's work has had a significant impact on the field of occupational medicine. His research and advocacy helped to improve safety standards in the semiconductor industry and other high-risk industries. He also played a key role in the development of occupational medicine as a recognized specialty within the field of medicine.