Vitamin D scientist awarded Linus Pauling Institute Prize
18-May-2009
Related topics: Research
This year's Linus Pauling Institute Prize for Health Research went to Dr Michael Holick from the Boston University School of Medicine for his work to revolutionize the understanding of vitamin D and its role in disease prevention.
At a presentation at Oregon State University, Dr Holick was recognized for his work to redefine vitamin D deficiency. He has also been strongly criticized over the last two decades for his stance that abstinence from direct sun exposure through sunblock use was leading to increasing vitamin D deficiency – with serious implications for cancer and other diseases.
Holick was the first scientist to isolate the active forms of vitamin D, and in the past three decades has become the world authority on photobiology of vitamin D through synthesis in the skin. He's determined that anyone living north of 35 degrees latitude can't make enough vitamin D in the skin during winter exposure to sunlight. His work has helped lead to vitamin D fortification in various foods.
"I well remember Linus Pauling standing up to criticism and skepticism, a trait of Holick as well," said Nevin Scrimshaw, president of the International Nutrition Foundation, in nominating him for this award. "Today, Holick is recognized as a world renowned nutritional biochemist/physician whose research has had a global impact on the health of both children and adults."
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AHANAOA A. C.
Miguel Leopoldo Alvarado
Fundador y Presidente
