September 24, 2008

Renowned AIDS Specialist Receives “Genius” Fellowship

Wafaa El-Sadr, MD, MPH, an infectious-disease specialist, won a “Genius” Fellowship from the MacArthur Foundation for developing new ways to treat AIDS and tuberculosis more effectively among disadvantaged populations, The New York Times reports.

Dr. El-Sadr is a professor of clinical medicine at Columbia’s College of Physicians and Surgeons and chief of the Division of Infectious Diseases at Harlem Hospital Center in New York, according to a statement.

El-Sadr is known for her innovative models in prevention, care and treatment of HIV. She also pioneered a multifaceted, family-focused approach to prevention, care and treatment of diseases that disproportionately affect people with less access to stable health care. She implemented HIV/AIDS programs in several sub-Saharan African countries as well as immigrant-focused initiatives in Harlem.

Winners of “Genius” Awards are singled out for their potential in making significant future contributions and for being highly esteemed by their colleagues. “The respect for Dr. Ell-Sadr’s scientific leadership in the field is only surpassed by the awe for the depth of her compassion, commitment, creativity and tenacity. It is a privilege to have her on our faculty,” said Linda Fried, MD, MPH, dean of the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health in New York City.

Search: Wafaa El-Sadr, MacArthur Foundation, "Genius" Fellowship, Columbia University, Harlem

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