Jack E. White

Jack E. White (July 24, 1921 – July 2, 1988) was an American physician and cancer surgeon. He was the first African American to train in surgical oncology at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. White later directed the cancer center at Howard University College of Medicine, where he also served as a full professor. He was elected to the Institute of Medicine in 1977, and also served as president of the American Cancer Society.

Early life and education Born in Stuart, Florida, White attended Florida A&M College, Howard University College of Medicine, and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. White was a World War II veteran.

Career White trained at Howard University's Freedmen's Hospital in Washington, D.C., and at what was then called Memorial Hospital in Manhattan.

White joined the faculty at Howard in 1951, becoming a full professor by 1963.

White was known as an expert on cancers among African Americans. His research showed that Black patients died of cancer at high rates, and that many of those deaths could have been prevented with earlier detection and treatment.

Post-retirement After retiring from Howard in 1986, White continued to serve as a cancer adviser to groups in Washington, D.C.

Honors In 1977, White was elected to the Institute of Medicine. He was recognized by the American Cancer Society for "outstanding service to the cause of cancer control". Howard University awarded its Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award to White in March 1988.

Personal life and death White died of cancer in 1988. He was survived by his wife, Sara, and five children.