Luther Terry

Luther Terry photo portrait as surgeon general

Luther Leonidas Terry (September 15, 1911 – March 29, 1985) was an American physician and public health official. He is best known for his tenure as the Surgeon General of the United States from 1961 to 1965 and for his pivotal role in the landmark 1964 Surgeon General's Report on Smoking and Health.

Early Life and Education

Luther Terry was born in Red Level, Alabama. He attended Birmingham-Southern College, where he earned his undergraduate degree. He then went on to receive his medical degree from the Tulane University School of Medicine in 1935.

Career

After completing his medical degree, Terry served in various medical and academic positions. He was a faculty member at the University of Texas and later at the Johns Hopkins University.

Surgeon General

In 1961, Terry was appointed as the Surgeon General of the United States by President John F. Kennedy. During his tenure, he focused on public health issues, including smoking, heart disease, and cancer.

1964 Surgeon General's Report

One of Terry's most significant contributions was the 1964 Surgeon General's Report on Smoking and Health. This report was the first of its kind to definitively link smoking with lung cancer and other serious health issues. The report had a profound impact on public health policies and led to widespread anti-smoking campaigns.

Later Life and Legacy

After his tenure as Surgeon General, Terry continued to work in public health and academia. He held positions at the University of Pennsylvania and the American Health Foundation. Terry's work laid the foundation for modern anti-smoking efforts and significantly influenced public health policy.

Personal Life

Luther Terry was married and had children. He passed away on March 29, 1985, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

See Also

• Surgeon General of the United States
• Smoking and Health
• Public Health