Preventive Medicine Leader Recognized

Jeremiah Stamler, MD, professor emeritus of preventive medicine at the Feinberg School of Medicine, has been named an American Heart Association (AHA) Distinguished Scientist. This honor is bestowed on a highly select group of investigators who have made significant contributions to cardiovascular and stroke research.

In a letter dated July 29, 2004, AHA President Alice K. Jacobs, MD, noted that Dr. Stamler’s “seminal research work…has importantly advanced our understanding and management of cardiovascular disease and stroke.” The committee selected Dr. Stamler for the honor based on the novelty, significance, and impact of his research as well as his stature in the field, she wrote. The AHA looks to its Distinguished Scientists for advice and leadership in scientific activities.

Dr. Stamler joined the Northwestern faculty in 1958 as assistant professor of medicine. He rose through the ranks to become a full professor and in 1972 chair of the newly created Department of Community Health and Preventive Medicine at the medical school and Northwestern Memorial Hospital, which he held for 16 years. He also served as Dingman Professor of Cardiology from 1973â90.

As he approaches his 85th birthday in October, Dr. Stamler continues to build upon his 55 years of dedicated, productive work in preventive medicine, which has resulted in more than 1,000 published papers and monographs. Not only is he involved in several large-scale, long-term studies, but he also continues to enhance the research capabilities and career development of younger collaborators.

Northwestern University will honor Dr. Stamler with a festschrift (a German word signifying celebration) on October 30â31. The weekend includes a gala dinner Saturday evening and scientific presentations on Sunday. For more information, call 312/503-8933 or visit www.preventivemedicine.northwestern.edu/js_event.htm .