Larry Campbell, one of the most popular mayors in Vancouver history, says he won't run in the next election.

Campbell, 57, told a news conference Thursday that all his goals as mayor have been accomplished during his three-year term.

"While there is always more to be done, I will not be the one that's going to lead these changes," he told reporters.

The former coroner added that he's never seen himself as a politician.

Campbell, a smoker and wine lover, was diagnosed with serious heart and cholesterol problems earlier this year and ordered by his doctor to lose weight. Since then, there had been speculation that his health would be a deciding factor in his political future.

Campbell said Thursday that his health problems weren't the main factor in his decision but admitted they were a wake-up call.

The left-wing Coalition of Progressive Electors party helped sweep Campbell to a landslide victory two-and-a-half years ago. Since then however, it has splintered, with many of the mayor's COPE colleagues frequently voting against him.

A former drug squad member and B.C. chief coroner, Campbell is the inspiration for the popular Canadian TV drama, "DaVinci's Inquest," and also worked as a script writer on the show.

Of all his outspoken exploits, Campbell is best known for advocating on behalf of drug users. He was the driving force behind the creation of North America's only safe injection site for heroin addicts.

According to the Brantford, Ont. native, drugs should be considered a health issue, not a criminal one.

He also insisted on holding a city referendum on staging the 2010 Winter Olympics, which resulted in a strong public endorsement. The city, in partnership with Whistler, went on to secure the potentially lucrative bid.