Bernard Lown

Bernard Lown (June 7, 1921 – February 16, 2021) was a renowned cardiologist, inventor, and activist known for his pioneering work in cardiology, particularly in the development of the direct current defibrillator for cardiac arrest, and for his co-founding of the International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War (IPPNW), an organization that was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1985.

Early Life and Education

Bernard Lown was born in Lithuania and emigrated to the United States in 1935. He pursued his medical education at the University of Maine and received his medical degree from the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. Lown's early experiences, particularly witnessing the impacts of the Great Depression and World War II, profoundly shaped his perspectives on social justice and the role of physicians in society.

Medical Career

Lown's medical career was distinguished by his contributions to cardiology, especially in the treatment of arrhythmias. He was a professor at the Harvard School of Public Health and practiced at the Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, where he was instrumental in developing the first reliable direct current defibrillator. This invention has saved countless lives by providing an effective treatment for ventricular fibrillation, a common cause of cardiac arrest.

In addition to his work on defibrillation, Lown introduced the concept of the Lown-Ganong-Levine syndrome, alongside colleagues Samuel A. Levine and C. Sidney Burwell, which describes a pre-excitation syndrome of the heart. He was also a pioneer in advocating for a more compassionate approach to patient care, emphasizing the importance of the doctor-patient relationship and the psychological aspects of healing.

Activism

Beyond his medical achievements, Bernard Lown was deeply committed to global health and peace. Disturbed by the threat of nuclear war, Lown co-founded the IPPNW with Evgeny Chazov, a cardiologist from the Soviet Union. The organization focused on highlighting the catastrophic consequences of nuclear conflicts and worked towards promoting disarmament. The Nobel Peace Prize awarded to IPPNW in 1985 recognized these efforts and the significant role that physicians can play in addressing global security issues.

Legacy

Bernard Lown's legacy is marked by his profound impact on both medicine and global peace. His work has not only advanced the field of cardiology but also demonstrated the powerful role that physicians can play in societal issues. Lown's dedication to humanitarian causes and his belief in the potential for science to contribute to a more peaceful world continue to inspire healthcare professionals and activists alike.

Selected Publications

Lown published extensively on topics ranging from cardiology to nuclear disarmament. Some of his notable works include "The Lost Art of Healing: Practicing Compassion in Medicine" and "Prescription for Survival: A Doctor's Journey to End Nuclear Madness," which reflect his dual interests in medical care and global peace.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Bernard Lown received numerous awards and honors, including the Nobel Peace Prize (as part of IPPNW), the Lasker Award for public service, and several honorary degrees from universities around the world.

Death

Bernard Lown passed away on February 16, 2021, at the age of 99. His death was mourned by many in the medical and global peace communities, who remembered him as a visionary physician and a passionate advocate for a healthier, more peaceful world.

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