Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity, published on March 28, 2023, reached nearly three million copies sold by October 2025. This best-selling book serves as the primary repository for the longevity-focused methodologies developed by Peter Attia, a Toronto-born physician who transitioned from surgical practice to the promotion of preventative health strategies and metabolic science.
Academic and Surgical Foundation
Born in 1973 in Toronto, Canada, Attia completed his undergraduate studies at Queen's University in 1996, earning a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering and applied mathematics. He subsequently obtained his Doctor of Medicine from Stanford University in 2001. From 2001 to 2006, he pursued a general surgery residency at Johns Hopkins Hospital. Following this, he spent two years at the National Cancer Institute as a research fellow, investigating immunotherapy techniques for melanoma.
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After leaving his residency, Attia joined the consulting firm McKinsey & Company, working in their Palo Alto office within the Corporate Risk and Healthcare practices. In 2012, he co-founded the Nutrition Science Initiative alongside Gary Taubes to advance metabolic research. Two years later, he established a private clinic focused on longevity. His digital reach grew through his blog, now titled peterattiamd.com, and his podcast, The Peter Attia Drive, which has accumulated over 100 million downloads.
Physical Disciplines and Public Engagement
Attia integrates physical endurance into his personal regimen, having completed a swim between Santa Catalina Island and Los Angeles in 2005; he later completed the crossing in both directions. He has engaged in competitive cycling, boxing, and archery.
Associations and Recent Developments
Public records released in 2025 detailed communications and meetings between Attia and Jeffrey Epstein occurring between 2015 and 2019, including discussions on medical referrals and operational advice. Following the public disclosure of these files in early 2026, Attia resigned from his position as a CBS News contributor and stepped down as chief science officer for the company David, while also issuing a public apology regarding the nature of his correspondence with Epstein.
Fast facts
- Born: 1973, Toronto, Canada
- Undergraduate Degree: Queen's University
- Medical Degree: Stanford University
- Residency: Johns Hopkins Hospital
- Notable Book: Outlive
- Podcast: The Peter Attia Drive
- Residence: Austin, Texas area
- Public Associations: Nutrition Science Initiative
Questions readers ask
What is the primary focus of Peter Attia's medical work?
His work centers on longevity medicine, metabolic health, and strategies for extending health span through nutrition and exercise.
What resulted in Peter Attia's resignation from his corporate roles in 2026?
He resigned as a CBS News contributor and chief science officer at David following public disclosures regarding his historical relationship with Jeffrey Epstein.
Achievements
- Notable work: Outlive
- Held posts at Johns Hopkins Hospital and McKinsey & Company
- Fields: medicine, healthy lifestyle and longevity
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