CLAAD Appoints Alex Cahana, MD, As Director of Medical Affairs

September 18, 2015 (PRLEAP.COM) Health News
September 18, 2015 - Washington, DC - The Center for Lawful Access and Abuse Deterrence (CLAAD) announced today that Alex Cahana, MD, MAS, FIPP, a well-regarded physician, professor, and expert in pain medicine, has joined the organization as Director of Medical Affairs.

Dr. Cahana's appointment bolsters the not-for-profit's efforts to curb the national prescription drug abuse and heroin epidemic and to provide better care for people whose health or treatment the crisis has impacted, such as those with pain, addiction, HIV, and hepatitis C.

"Dr. Cahana brings a wealth of experience and influence as an internationally-recognized leader in the field of medicine," said Michael C. Barnes, CLAAD's Executive Director. "His leadership will enable CLAAD to reach more health care policy makers and professionals with the vital message that compassion is necessary on both sides of the prescription drug abuse issue."

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 44 people die from overdose of prescription drugs every day in the United States, while heroin overdose death rates have nearly quadrupled in the past decade. Responses to the epidemic have led to significant unintended consequences. A recent Government Accountability Office report found that the Drug Enforcement Administration's efforts have led to shortages of controlled substances that make it harder for patients with legitimate prescriptions to obtain controlled-substance medications.

"I have dedicated my career to improving the health and quality of life of people with complex medical needs," Dr. Cahana said. "I share CLAAD's commitment to moderation in addressing the multifaceted nature of prescription drug abuse, and I am excited to join CLAAD as Director of Medical Affairs."

Dr. Cahana obtained his medical degree at Tel Aviv University. He also holds degrees in Bioethics, Philosophy and Theology, and recently received the University of Washington's Presidential David B. Thorud Leadership Award. More detail on Dr. Cahana's professional background is available at claad.org/dr-cahana.

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About the Center for Lawful Access and Abuse Deterrence
CLAAD is a 501(c)(3) organization working to address the nation's prescription drug abuse and heroin epidemic. CLAAD's mission includes advancing consumer access to high-quality care for pain, addiction, HIV, hepatitis C, and other health conditions. Our National Prescription Drug Abuse Prevention Strategy, now in its fourth iteration, has been vetted and endorsed by more than 30 not-for-profit health and safety organizations. For more information, visit CLAAD.org and follow @CLAAD_Coalition on Twitter.

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