Craig, Kevin

The Medical Association for the Prevention of War (MAPW) was founded in 1951 to study all aspects of physicians' concerns on war, and in particular the ethical responsibilities of doctors in relation to war. Three working parties were set up: on the misuse of science, psychological aspects of war, and the international role of medicine. International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War (IPPNW) was formed in 1980 by a group of Soviet and American doctors to educate health professionals, political leaders, and the public about the medical consequences of nuclear war. IPPNW was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1985. MAPW soon became a UK affiliate of IPPNW. Other groups worldwide became IPPNW affiliates including the French Association Mdicale pour la Prvention de la Guerre Nuclaire (AMPGN), the German Arzte gegen Atomkrieg and the Dutch Medische Werkgroep tegen Atoomwapens. Medical Campaign Against Nuclear Weapons (MCANW) was formed in 1980, as a campaigning group specifically working for nuclear disarmament. MAPW and MCANW shared many members and for some time worked out of the same office. In 1992 they merged to form MEDACT (Medical Action for Global Security). MEDACT is "an organisation of health professionals challenging social and environmental barriers to health worldwide". MEDACT working groups include : Environmental Change and Health, Economic Policy and Health, Violence, Conflict and Health, Nuclear Weapons and Health. Kevin and Pat Craig, both medical professionals, have been involved with MCANW at local and international level. Pat Craig has also written as a medical historian.