Richard A. Cash

2018-11-19 165302-Richard Alan Cash at 51yrsOfORT

Richard A. Cash is an American public health researcher and physician known for his significant contributions to global health, particularly in the field of diarrheal diseases. He is a senior lecturer at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

Early Life and Education

Richard A. Cash was born in the United States. He completed his undergraduate studies at Wesleyan University and earned his MD degree from the New York University School of Medicine. He later obtained a MPH from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

Career

Cash began his career in public health in the 1960s. He is best known for his work on oral rehydration therapy (ORT), a simple, cost-effective treatment for dehydration caused by diarrhea. His research and advocacy for ORT have saved millions of lives worldwide, particularly in developing countries.

Oral Rehydration Therapy

During the late 1960s and early 1970s, Cash, along with his colleagues, conducted pioneering research on ORT in Bangladesh and India. Their work demonstrated that a simple solution of sugar, salt, and water could effectively treat dehydration caused by diarrheal diseases. This discovery was a breakthrough in the treatment of cholera and other diarrheal illnesses, leading to widespread adoption of ORT globally.

Awards and Recognition

Richard A. Cash has received numerous awards for his contributions to public health, including the prestigious Prince Mahidol Award in 2006. He has also been recognized by various international health organizations for his work in improving global health outcomes.

Current Work

Cash continues to teach and conduct research at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. He is involved in various global health initiatives and serves as a mentor to students and young professionals in the field of public health.

See Also

• Public health
• Oral rehydration therapy
• Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
• Diarrheal diseases

External Links

‎