Senate confirms Stephen Hahn to lead FDA
Stephen Hahn, MD, chief of radiation oncology at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, has been confirmed to lead the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The Senate approved Hahn’s nomination for FDA commissioner Thursday, Dec. 12, in a 72-18 vote.
“I congratulate Dr. Hahn and thank the Senate for prioritizing his nomination,” Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar said in a statement. “Dr. Hahn brings an impressive set of scientific and leadership qualifications to the job, and I look forward to seeing the FDA and its people thrive under his leadership.”
The Trump administration nominated Hahn, who is also chief medical executive at MD Anderson, early last month. Norman E. Sharpless, MD, took over as acting commissioner of the FDA after Scott Gottlieb’s sudden resignation from the position in March.
The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) put out its own announcement today, applauding the Senate’s decision.
“Our support and respect for Dr. Hahn is based on his proven commitment to patients, science-based decision-making, and consumer health and safety,” Theodore L. DeWeese, MD, chair of the ASTRO board, said in the statement. “We look forward to his leadership as he steps into this critically important role as FDA Commissioner.”
Matt joined Chicago’s TriMed team in 2018 covering all areas of health imaging after two years reporting on the hospital field. He holds a bachelor’s in English from UIC, and enjoys a good cup of coffee and an interesting documentary.