December 11, 1995

Dr. Lester Breslow, professor emeritus of the UCLA School of Public Health, has been awarded the Healthtrac Foundation Prize, given annually to recognize a person who has made a major contribution to health improvement.

Breslow, one of the nation's leading public health experts, is widely known for his research into health promotion and disease prevention. He was the first to show that simple health practices such as eating breakfast, moderate exercise, getting enough sleep and not smoking are linked to living a longer, healthier life.

"I am honored, and indeed flattered, that I am being given an award that has previously been awarded to such distinguished and accomplished people," Breslow said. "To be among such company is not only a personal honor, but a great honor for the UCLA School of Public Health." Past recipients of the prize include international health leader William Foege, fitness innovator Kenneth H. Cooper and former U.S. Surgeon General C. Everett Koop.

Breslow, former dean of the UCLA School of Public Health and a past president of the American Public Health Association, received his $50,000 award during a ceremony sponsored by the American Public Health Association at its 1995 annual meeting in San Diego.