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The European Society of Preventive Medicine (ESPM) announces the appointment of Prof Pekka Puska as it’s next President. Puska, a distinguished figure in the field of public health and preventive medicine, brings with him a wealth of expertise and a proven track record of transformative contributions.

With an illustrious career spanning several decades, Professor Puska has been a driving force behind groundbreaking initiatives aimed at improving population health and advancing preventive measures. Notably, his leadership as the director of the North Karelia Project—an innovative public health undertaking—resulted in significant reductions in cardiovascular diseases through community-based interventions. His work has garnered international recognition and has been instrumental in shaping public health policies on a global scale.

Puska held the position of Director for Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) Prevention and Health Promotion at the World Health Organization (WHO) Headquarters between 2001 and 2003. In 2006, he represented Finland as a candidate for the Director-General position of WHO. From 2010 to 2013, he served as the Chancellor of the University of Turku. He has also served as President of World Heart Federation (WHF) and President of the International Association of Public Health Institutes (IANPHI).

As the President of the European Society of Preventive Medicine, Professor Puska will spearhead efforts to further elevate the role of preventive medicine in promoting health and wellbeing across Europe and beyond. His visionary leadership and deep understanding of preventive strategies are poised to guide the ESPM in addressing emerging health challenges, fostering collaborations, and advocating for evidence-based policies.

Learn more about Professor Pekka Puska as he engages in a recent interview with Chris MacAskill: