Remembering a Giant of Social Medicine
On January 31, 2018, the Montefiore-Einstein family learned of the loss of Dr. Victor Sidel, distinguished university professor emeritus of epidemiology & population health, who was a cherished faculty member and colleague for more than 40 years. He served as chair of social medicine at Montefiore from 1969 to 1985, and was an influential mentor to generations of students and residents.
Dr. Victor Sidel
Dr. Sidel was well known for his devotion to making the world a better and safer place through his trailblazing efforts and steadfast commitment to social medicine, and social justice. A founder and president of Physicians for Social Responsibility, he embodied the core beliefs upon which Montefiore and Einstein were founded. He also was co-president of International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War, which was the recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize in 1985.
The author of numerous books and articles about the human consequences of war, international health, and the impact of poverty and deprivation on health and well-being, he lectured worldwide on these issues. He also worked with both the department of epidemiology & population health and the department of family and social medicine on the development of social medicine and public health programs. And, at Einstein, he presented "On the Declaration of Geneva" for the graduating medical students each year, on the day before commencement.
“Vic was a giant of social medicine,” noted Dr. Thomas Rohan, professor and chair of epidemiology & population health. “He paved the way for those who followed.”
Posted on: Monday, February 05, 2018