American sexually transmitted diseases association and the thomas parran award: Past, present, and future

摘要

What is in a name? That is the question that the American Sexually Transmitted Diseases Association (ASTDA) needs to address in the context of the recent controversy surrounding Dr Thomas Parran, Jr. As members of ASTDA are well aware, Dr Parran (1892-1968) is among the most revered figures in the history of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). He, more than any single other person, ushered in what we have come to know as the modern era of STD control and prevention and provided a paradigmatic example of how scientific rigor, excellence, and commitment can be translated into meaningful public policy and action. As the sixth surgeon general of the United States (1936-1948), he fought tirelessly for greater public acceptance of the importance of venereal diseases and for recognition of the burden they place on society. His 1937 book, Shadow on the Land, laid forth the key principles of case finding and contact tracing, principles, which are now still fundamental to our current approach to partner management.1 In 1938, Parran testified before Congress in support of legislation to expand funding for STD research and public health prevention efforts.2 Standing on principle, Parran even refused an interview on national radio when CBS officials told him that he could not mention the words "syphilis" or "gonorrhea" on the air, reacting angrily to hypocrisy in radio broadcasting standards.3 Parran toiled to reduce the stigma of STDs and stood as a bold example of how a great leader can powerfully serve by great example.