The Academy has traditionally addressed public health issues with enthusiasm.
In 1948, the first AAGP Congress of Delegates acted on a resolution calling on the Academy to combat alcoholism. Public health issues addressed over the years include immunizations, Native American health, mental health, preventive care, use of seat belts, tobacco advertising, rural health, child care, drug abuse, heart disease, cancer, diabetes, the National Health Service Corps, and sexually transmitted diseases including AIDS.
The 1996 Congress of Delegates adopted several policies on public health issues, including condemnation of female genital mutilation, support for substance abuse treatment instead of imprisonment for pregnant drug abusers, and support for efforts to ensure that legal immigrants have access to health care.