International Pediatric Association PresidentErrol R. Alden, M.D., FAAP, of Marengo, Ill., received the World Health Organization (WHO) İhsan Doğramacı Family Health Foundation Prize. Dr. Alden was AAP CEO from 2004-’15.
The award recognizes service to the field of family health. It is named for Turkish National Pediatric Society founder Prof. İhsan Doğramacı, an honorary FAAP whose work led to better understanding of the mental status of refugee children.
In remarks to the WHO, Dr. Alden said the COVID-19 pandemic has magnified inequities, particularly for refugee children, making the work of world health leaders even more vital to children and families.
“Together, we have an unprecedented opportunity to tear down broken systems and structures and remake the world — and its health systems — so that every child can grow up to be healthy and have a bright future,” he said.
Dr. Alden joined the AAP staff in 1987 as director of the Department of Education, where he helped build the Neonatal Resuscitation Program and Helping Babies Breathe. He has been named an honorary fellow of numerous medical organizations around the world.
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