Lewis Kuller, M.D., Dr.P.H., distinguished professor of public health and professor of epidemiology at the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, has been designated a 2009 American Heart Association Distinguished Scientist for major contributions to cardiovascular disease and stroke research.

For more than 40 years, Dr. Kuller has studied risk factors for individuals with heart disease, and the development of atherosclerosis and heart disease. He established and directed the Healthy Women's Study, the first and longest study of women from pre- to post-menopause. He also is nationally recognized for his contributions to the study of cardiovascular disease and the use of non-invasive techniques, such as ultrasound and coronary computed tomography (CT), to detect early heart disease in people without symptoms.

"Lew Kuller is a world-class scientist who has made substantial contributions to the field of public health," said Donald S. Burke, M.D., dean, University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health. "With a keen sense of purpose, he has pioneered landmark studies that have transformed our understanding of cardiovascular disease, stroke, diabetes and women's health."

Dr. Kuller directs the Pittsburgh site of the multicenter Cardiovascular Health Study (CHS), which led to a new risk factor index to improve coronary heart disease prediction. He is a co-principal investigator on the CHS Cognition Study, one of the largest prospective dementia studies that has identified risk factors and brain changes with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to predict dementia many years later. He also is the co-principal investigator of the recently completed Ginkgo Evaluation of Memory Study, a trial that showed the dietary supplement Ginkgo biloba has no effect on preventing dementia.

Dr. Kuller has published more than 600 articles in peer-reviewed journals. A few of his many honors include the Chancellor's Distinguished Research Award, University of Pittsburgh; the Abraham Lilenfeld Award, American College of Epidemiology; the MERIT Award, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute; the Alumni Achievement Award, George Washington University; and the Society of Scholars and Centennial Scholar, Johns Hopkins University.

The American Heart Association created the Distinguished Scientist designation in 2003. The title is conferred on a select group of prominent scientists whose work has advanced the understanding and management of cardiovascular disease and stroke.

Source
University of Pittsburgh