# Gideon Lasco

Gideon Lasco is a Filipino medical anthropologist, physician, and academic known for his work in medical anthropology and public health research.

## Early life and education

Gideon Lasco completed his Doctor of Medicine (MD) at the University of the Philippines Manila. He also earned a Master of Science (MS) in Medical Anthropology from the same institution. Lasco later pursued his Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Medical Anthropology at the University of Amsterdam. During his postdoctoral studies, he obtained a Master of Arts (AM) in History of Science, with a focus on the History of Medicine, from Harvard University.

## Career

Gideon Lasco currently serves as a professorial lecturer at the Department of Anthropology in the University of the Philippines Diliman and as a research fellow at the Development Studies Program of Ateneo de Manila University.

### Academic work and research

Lasco's research interests span medical anthropology, with a particular focus on health systems, environmental anthropology, and drug policy. He has conducted extensive research on various public health issues in Southeast Asia, contributing significantly to discussions on topics such as water quality perception and public health policy.
One of his notable contributions includes examining how local communities perceive and interact with water quality, shedding light on the sociocultural dimensions of public health interventions. His work often bridges the gap between academic research and practical policy-making, emphasizing the importance of understanding local contexts in addressing health challenges.
In addition to his academic research, Lasco is actively involved in public health advocacy, particularly in promoting evidence-based drug policies and addressing health inequities in the Philippines. His interdisciplinary approach combines insights from anthropology, medicine, and public health to inform policy and practice.

### Public writing and commentary

As a columnist for the Philippine Daily Inquirer, Lasco regularly writes about public health, social issues, and environmental concerns. His work has appeared in various international publications, including The Diplomat and BusinessMirror, where he contributes analysis on regional health policies and social phenomena.

### Mountain climbing and wellness advocacy

Beyond his academic work, Lasco is known for his advocacy of mountain climbing and its relationship to wellness and environmental awareness. He has written extensively about the cultural and health aspects of mountaineering, drawing from his personal experiences and anthropological perspective.

## Awards and recognition

In 2022, Lasco was honored as one of The Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) of the Philippines in the category of Education and Academe. This prestigious award recognizes his contributions to academic research and education.

## Publications

Gideon Lasco has authored several notable works, including The Philippines is Not a Small Country (2020), which explores questions of Philippine nationhood and identity. The book was cited in The Guardian as one of the "books that explain the world." The book has been praised for its insightful analysis of Philippine society and its relevance to global discussions on nationalism and identity.
Lasco also regularly contributes to academic journals and news publications, writing on topics related to public health, medical anthropology, and social issues. His articles often bridge the gap between academic research and public discourse, making complex topics accessible to a broader audience.

### Selected works

* The Philippines is Not a Small Country (2020)
* Health and Society in the Philippines: An Anthropological Perspective (2021)
* Drugs and Development in the Global South: A Critical Perspective (2023)

## Research and expertise

Lasco's research interests span a wide range of interdisciplinary fields, including:
* Medical anthropology: Examining the sociocultural dimensions of health and illness.
* Public health: Addressing health inequities and promoting evidence-based policies.
* Environmental studies: Investigating the intersection of health, environment, and society.
* Social medicine: Exploring the social determinants of health and disease.
* History of medicine: Analyzing the historical context of medical practices and policies.
His work often combines qualitative and quantitative methods to provide a holistic understanding of health issues, particularly in the context of the Philippines and Southeast Asia.