Dr. Ron Chapman, Director of the California Department of Public Health and California’s health officer, released the following statement on the passing of Dr. Lester Breslow:
“My condolences go out today to the family and friends of Dr. Lester Breslow, the former director of the California Department of Public Health and a public health legend.
“I’ve known Dr. Breslow for 15 years and his impact upon what I and other public health officers do every day cannot be overstated. Under his leadership, the goals of public health were strengthened with a focus on prevention.
“Every Californian can benefit today from the healthy habits recommended by Dr. Breslow in 1959: such as, get regular exercise and sleep; don’t smoke; eat a regular breakfast; stop snacking between meals; and maintain a normal weight.
“Dr. Breslow will be greatly missed.”