Thomas M. Campbell II
Thomas M. Campbell II is an American doctor and renowned author of books on nutrition and health. He is a professor at Cornell University, where he teaches nutritional biochemistry and physiology, as well as an expert in nutrition, public policy, and public health research. He is best known for his groundbreaking book The China Study, co-authored with his father Thomas M. Campbell, the renowned epidemiologist, and his mother, biologist Junshi Chen.
Campbell was born in 1965 in Ithaca, New York, and grew up fascinated by science. His parents, Thomas and Junshi, were both medical professionals and pioneers in nutrition research. Raised in a supportive environment in which new ideas were constantly explored and discussed, Campbell developed a keen interest in science and nutrition. Following in his parents’ footsteps, Campbell went on to earn a degree in biology from Cornell University and later a medical degree from the University of Rochester.
Campbell's research and publication career began in 1994 with the publication of Metabolic cardiovascular risk factors: Focus on vitamin B6. Since then, his impact and contributive research has been vast in the nutrition and health space. Campbell's research has been centered around the influence of diet on long-term health and, in particular, its role in the prevention of cancer and heart disease. Campbell's research has been published in numerous noteworthy journals, including Nature, The Lancet, The Journal of the American Medical Association, and The New England Journal of Medicine.
The implications of Campbell’s research have been far-reaching and it has had a considerable impact in the world of nutrition and health. His research and publications have led to a greater understanding of how food and nutrition can affect long-term health, and has helped to inform the public on healthier dietary choices.
His first notable book, The China Study (2004), was co-written with his father, Dr. Thomas M. Campbell, and discussed the health benefits of a plant-based diet. It was based on a 20-year study conducted by both of them and their colleagues at Cornell University. The book went on to become a bestseller, as well as winning acclaim from the nutrition community.
In 2006, Campbell and his father also co-authored Whole: Rethinking the Science of Nutrition, which includes a detailed look at the effects of a balanced diet on physical and mental health. The book has been a major influence on both public policy changes and public opinion on dietary recommendations.
Campbell is also an influential researcher and advocate for policies regarding the link between diet and health. He has advocated for policies that regulate the marketing of unhealthy foods and subsidies for healthy food, among other initiatives. He has spoken extensively before government officials, healthcare organizations and universities, to help foster greater understanding of nutrition and public health.
Campbell has received numerous awards and honors in recognition of his work, including the 2008 Vegetarian World Hall of Fame Award and the 2016 Arnold E. Beckman Award in Nutrition Research. He also served as President of the American College of Nutrition from 2008 to 2009 and was the first president from Cornell University.
In recent years, Campbell has focused on creating connections between nutrition, health policy and public health. He is an advocate for a healthy diet and an active lifestyle, and speaks to both the public and health professionals on the need for nutrition policies and public health legislation. Campbell’s work is helping to shape the future of nutrition, and his influence in the field of nutrition and public health will continue to be felt for decades to come.
