There are three main areas in public health that need continued vigilance, said Dr. Peter L. Beilenson, now Howard County's health officer after serving as Baltimore's health commissioner for 13 years.

The first is substance abuse, which has led to much of the violence in Baltimore. Next is a lack of primary care, contributing to obesity, diabetes and heart disease in the city. Third is the city kids' preparedness for school, including immunizations.

"[Stephanie C. Rawlings-Blake] has been good on public-health issues already," he said. "But it's really important to continue focusing on big problems in the city, many which are interrelated. One very nice thing in the city is the tremendous health resources available."

HER RECORD

Rawlings-Blake has spoken out for curbing the obesity epidemic, especially among youth. She supported banning trans fats in restaurants and smoking in public places. She was the main sponsor of a bill to require disclaimers on crisis pregnancy clinics that don't offer abortions.