Dayton, Ohio, May 16, 2025: Dr. Satheesh Kathula, a distinguished hematologist and oncologist based in Dayton, Ohio, has been awarded the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award in Global Healthcare by the Global Healthcare Leaders Foundation (GHLF). The GHLF, a nonprofit founded by Harvard University alumni, recognized Dr. Kathula for his transformative contributions to healthcare innovation and global health equity during a ceremony held in Boston last month.
Dr. Kathula, currently serving as the President of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI), has dedicated over two decades to advancing cancer care and preventive medicine. A graduate of Guntur Medical College in India, he completed his residency in internal medicine at Wright State University in Dayton and pursued a fellowship in hematology and oncology at the University of Cincinnati. Board-certified in hematology, oncology, and internal medicine, Dr. Kathula practices at Dayton Physicians Network, where he is known for his patient-centered approach and expertise in treating complex blood disorders and cancers.
Since assuming the AAPI presidency in July 2024, Dr. Kathula has spearheaded initiatives to bridge healthcare gaps worldwide. He has organized three major global healthcare conferences in India, focusing on topics such as precision oncology, rural healthcare access, and infectious disease management. As chair of the Oncology Tracks at AAPI’s international health summits, he has facilitated collaborations among leading physicians, researchers, and policymakers to address pressing global health challenges.
One of Dr. Kathula’s most impactful initiatives is the “Stop 3 and Start 3” campaign, launched in late 2024. This program promotes cancer prevention by encouraging individuals to eliminate three harmful habits—smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and poor diet—while adopting three healthy practices: regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and timely vaccinations. The campaign has gained traction in both the United States and India, with community outreach programs and educational workshops reaching thousands.
Under Dr. Kathula’s leadership, AAPI has also forged a strategic partnership with the Global Association of Indian Medical Students (GAIMS) to combat cervical cancer, a leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in India. The initiative focuses on increasing access to HPV vaccinations, expanding screening programs, and raising awareness about early detection. “Cervical cancer is preventable, yet it claims countless lives due to lack of access and awareness,” Dr. Kathula said in a recent interview. “Our goal is to empower communities with the tools and knowledge to eradicate this disease.”
An alumnus of the Global Healthcare Leaders Program at Harvard University, Dr. Kathula credits his training for shaping his vision of healthcare as a global responsibility. “The program taught me the importance of collaboration and innovation in tackling systemic healthcare challenges,” he noted. His work with GHLF has included mentoring young physicians and advocating for policies that promote equitable access to cutting-edge treatments.
Dr. Kathula’s contributions extend beyond medicine. A passionate advocate for cultural integration, he has served on the board of the Asian Indian Community Center in Dayton, fostering community engagement and supporting immigrant families. He is also an active member of local charities, often volunteering his time to provide free health screenings in underserved areas.
The Lifetime Achievement Award underscores Dr. Kathula’s unwavering commitment to improving lives through medicine and advocacy. In his acceptance speech, he dedicated the honor to his patients and colleagues, stating, “This award is a testament to the power of collective effort. Together, we can build a healthier, more equitable world.”
As Dr. Kathula continues to lead AAPI and drive global health initiatives, his work serves as an inspiration to physicians and communities alike. His vision for a future where preventable diseases are eradicated and healthcare is accessible to all remains at the heart of his mission.
For more information about Dr. Kathula’s initiatives or AAPI’s global health programs, visit www.aapiusa.org.
