Secretary Leavitt Applauds Nomination Of New FDA Chief

WASHINGTON, March 15 /PRNewswire/ -- HHS Secretary Mike Leavitt today praised the nomination of Andrew C. von Eschenbach, M.D., to lead the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The nomination was announced earlier today by President George W. Bush. Dr. von Eschenbach has served as acting FDA commissioner since September 2005.

"Andy is an inspired choice to provide permanent leadership at this critical agency. His career has been defined by his vision for progress in research and passion for the care of patients -- two qualities which will serve the agency and the American public well," Secretary Leavitt said.

"FDA needs permanent leadership to spur more innovation, improve drug safety, and help life-saving drugs reach patients faster. Andy understands these needs and will provide leadership to get the job done."

FDA is the oldest consumer protection agency in the world, celebrating its 100th year of service. FDA is responsible for protecting the public health by assuring the safety, efficacy, and security of human and veterinary drugs, biological products, medical devices, our nation's food supply, cosmetics, and products that emit radiation. FDA is also responsible for advancing the public health by helping to speed innovations that make medicines and foods more effective, safer, and more affordable; and helping the public get the accurate, science-based information they need to use medicines and foods to improve their health.

Dr. von Eschenbach has served as acting FDA commissioner since September 2005 concurrently with his position as director of the National Cancer Institute (NCI), to which he was named in January 2002.

Dr. von Eschenbach is a nationally recognized urologic surgeon, medical educator, and cancer advocate. He also is a cancer survivor. Prior to his appointment as director of NCI, Dr. von Eschenbach spent 25 years at the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, ultimately serving as executive vice president and chief academic officer.

A native of Philadelphia, Dr. von Eschenbach earned a Bachelor of Science degree from St. Joseph's University in 1963 and his medical degree from Georgetown University School of Medicine in 1967. He completed residencies in general surgery and urology at Pennsylvania Hospital in Philadelphia and was then an instructor in urology at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. From 1968 to 1971, Dr. von Eschenbach served as a Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy Medical Corps.

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U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

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