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The Fred L. Soper Award for Excellence in Health Literature

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"Only through a regional organization, with a trusted international staff, is it possible to develop a free interchange of information and harmonious action in attacking common problems… As satisfactory eradication techniques become available for the solution of an increasing number of problems, the importance of regional action must increase rather than diminish." — Fred L. Soper, MD DrPH , Remarks at the First World Health Assembly, 1948.

Excellence in medical/public health research and in writing the research findings is among the most important factors in promoting health in the Americas. Current information on health situations, trends, diseases, treatment, and delivery systems are critical for use in planning, executing and evaluating policies and programs of public health.

The Fred L. Soper Award for Excellence in Health Literature, created in 1990, is one of five awards presented by the Pan American Health and Education Foundation through its Awards for Excellence in Inter-American Public Health Program, a joint partnership between the Foundation and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO).

In recognizing significant contributions to the health literature in Latin America and the Caribbean, the Foundation established the Fred L. Soper Award to promote the highest standards of research, specifically research that emphasizes regional impact in Latin America and the Caribbean.

A distinguished jury of public health professionals reviews nominations, and recommends a candidate to the board of trustees of the Foundation for final selection.

The award is often presented at a ceremony organized by the PAHO/WHO representative in the winner's country often in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, universities, and other public health organizations. For the winning article, the principal investigator/primary author receives US$2,500 and a certificate of honor.