Pioneering Medical Figure C. Everett Koop Celebrates 40 Years as Surgeon General

In the annals of American public health, few figures loom as large as Dr. C. Everett Koop. Known as "one of the most popular people in the history of government" by Senator Orrin Hatch, Koop served as the 13th Surgeon General of the United States from 1982 to 1989.

Born as a Presbyterian social conservative, Koop made a name for himself as the world's most famous pediatric surgeon, having earned global fame for his celebrated separations of conjoined twins at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. His dazzling technical mastery in thousands of procedures on tiny infants, often using techniques he developed himself, set a new standard in the field.

In addition to his medical prowess, Koop also established the nation's first Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and edited pediatric surgery's first professional journal. His contributions to paediatric medicine were immense, and he was hailed as "immortal" and "a rock star" by various publications.

However, Koop's tenure as Surgeon General was not just about medicine. He was a voice for public health, tackling issues with profound ethical implications. Koop defined domestic violence as a matter of public health, weighed in on breastfeeding, and called for a crusade against drunk driving.

One of Koop's four set-piece battles was the fight against AIDS. His 1986 report on the disease was an extraordinary document, in which he declined to moralize about AIDS and rejected suggestions that sufferers be quarantined, tattooed, or sent to Alaska. His approach was marked by empathy and understanding, making him an unlikely hero during a time of fear and stigma.

Koop's stance on AIDS was a departure from his pro-life views, which he made clear after issuing a thunderous pro-life call at Wheaton College and making pro-life documentaries with philosopher-theologian Francis Schaeffer. His pro-life stance made him extremely well-known, but Koop did not plan to promote his own religious ideology as Surgeon General.

Another of Koop's battles was against tobacco. Building on his predecessor Luther Terry's work from the 1960s, Koop upped the ante on the tobacco issue, stating that Big Tobacco lied and deceived. His efforts contributed to a significant drop in the U.S. smoking population, with the smoking rate falling from 33% to 26% by the time Koop stepped down.

Despite his gruelling confirmation process, Koop was appointed by President Reagan. Toward the end of Reagan's time in office, the President requested a report on the health effects of abortion on women. Koop finally reported that there simply was not enough scientific evidence one way or another.

Throughout his career, Koop demonstrated a commitment to public health that transcended political and personal beliefs. His legacy continues to inspire, reminding us of the power of empathy, understanding, and a steadfast dedication to the well-being of all.