Maximo Castro

Maximo Castro, M.D., Ph.D., is a dedicated physician and social scientist whose research delves into the influence of community dynamics on health, well-being, and quality of life. He holds a prestigious position as a Professor of Social Medicine at the University of Buenos Aires School of Medicine; he also serves as a Professor of Public Health in the Department of Epidemiology. Furthermore, Maximo contributes to the Department of Sociology within the Faculty of Social Sciences at the University of Buenos Aires.

In 2001, Maximo earned his B.S. from the University of Buenos Aires. He completed his M.D. at the same institution in 2005, followed by an M.P.H. from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health in 2007. He finalized his academic journey with a Ph.D. from Oxford University in 2012. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to science, Maximo was elected to the National Academy of Medicine in Argentina in 2018.

Maximo's current projects are centered around understanding the impact of urbanization and social ties on public health outcomes. His work explores how lifestyle choices, such as physical activity and diet, can ripple through communities, affecting individuals' health and wellbeing. By applying sophisticated network analysis and statistical models, he aims to uncover patterns that could inform policies for healthier cities. This line of inquiry also examines the spread of positive mental states like optimism and resilience within neighborhoods. Additionally, Maximo has embarked on studies investigating the role of technology in shaping social connections and its implications for mental health.

Alongside his research partner, Elena Martinez, Maximo co-authored a book titled "Interwoven Lives: How Social Networks Shape Our Health and Happiness," which hit the shelves in 2022. The book has garnered international attention and has been translated into several languages. Maximo was recognized by Forbes magazine as one of the leading influencers in global health in 2022.

Previously, Maximo focused on the challenges faced by elderly populations in urban settings, including issues surrounding geriatric care, loneliness among seniors, decision-making processes in long-term care facilities, and the integration of palliative care into standard medical practice. His insights have significantly impacted policy discussions on aging populations and urban health strategies.