Stephen Hahn

Former Commissioner Stephen Hahn (49484140217)

Stephen M. Hahn (born January 22, 1960) is an American medical doctor and scientist who served as the 24th Commissioner of Food and Drugs at the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) from December 2019 until January 2021. Prior to his appointment at the FDA, Hahn was a well-regarded oncologist and researcher, holding the position of Chief Medical Executive at the MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas.

Early Life and Education

Stephen M. Hahn was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He pursued his undergraduate education at Rice University, where he earned a bachelor's degree in biology. He then went on to attend medical school at the Temple University School of Medicine, graduating in 1984. Following medical school, Hahn completed his residency in radiation oncology at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, where he also served as chief resident.

Career

After completing his residency, Hahn embarked on a career that combined both clinical practice and research. He joined the faculty at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, where he specialized in treating lung cancer and sarcoma with radiation therapy. His research during this period focused on the molecular causes of cancer and the development of new treatments.

In 2015, Hahn moved to Texas to join the MD Anderson Cancer Center, one of the leading cancer treatment and research institutions in the world. As Chief Medical Executive, he oversaw the clinical operations of the center, ensuring that patients received high-quality care and that the institution remained at the forefront of cancer research and treatment.

Commissioner of the FDA

In 2019, President Donald Trump nominated Hahn to serve as the Commissioner of the FDA, a position that requires confirmation by the Senate. Hahn's nomination was confirmed in December 2019, and he assumed office shortly thereafter. As Commissioner, Hahn was responsible for overseeing the FDA's vast array of responsibilities, including the regulation of food safety, tobacco products, dietary supplements, prescription and over-the-counter medications, vaccines, and medical devices.

During his tenure, Hahn faced the unprecedented challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic. Under his leadership, the FDA worked to facilitate the development and authorization of COVID-19 vaccines, therapies, and diagnostic tests. Hahn's tenure was marked by efforts to balance rapid response to the pandemic with the FDA's commitment to ensuring the safety and efficacy of medical products.

Post-FDA Career

After leaving the FDA in January 2021, Hahn returned to the healthcare and research sectors. His post-FDA career has focused on advancing cancer research and improving patient care, leveraging his extensive experience in oncology and medical administration.

Legacy

Stephen Hahn's legacy as FDA Commissioner is closely tied to his leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic. His tenure at the FDA was characterized by significant challenges, including public pressure for rapid approval of vaccines and treatments, and the need to maintain the integrity and trustworthiness of the FDA's regulatory processes.

See Also

• United States Food and Drug Administration
• COVID-19 pandemic
• MD Anderson Cancer Center
• Oncology