Elizabeth Barrett-Connor

Elizabeth L. Barrett-Connor

Elizabeth Barrett-Connor (April 8, 1935 – June 9, 2019) was an American epidemiologist and distinguished professor at the University of California, San Diego. She was renowned for her pioneering research in the fields of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and aging.

Early Life and Education

Elizabeth Barrett-Connor was born on April 8, 1935, in Los Angeles, California. She earned her undergraduate degree from Mount Holyoke College in 1956 and her medical degree from the Cornell University Medical College in 1960.

Career

Barrett-Connor began her career as a physician but soon transitioned to research. She joined the faculty at the University of California, San Diego in 1972, where she became a professor of family and preventive medicine. She was the founding director of the Rancho Bernardo Heart and Chronic Disease Study, which began in 1972 and provided valuable insights into the epidemiology of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and aging.

Research Contributions

Barrett-Connor's research significantly advanced the understanding of the epidemiology of chronic diseases. Her work on the Rancho Bernardo Study provided critical data on the risk factors and natural history of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. She was particularly interested in the role of hormones in disease development and the differences in disease patterns between men and women.

Cardiovascular Disease

Barrett-Connor's research in cardiovascular disease focused on identifying risk factors and understanding the gender differences in disease prevalence and outcomes. Her studies contributed to the knowledge of how lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and smoking impact heart health.

Diabetes

In the field of diabetes, Barrett-Connor's work helped to elucidate the relationship between diabetes and cardiovascular disease. She investigated the impact of diabetes on mortality and morbidity, as well as the role of insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome.

Aging

Barrett-Connor also made significant contributions to the study of aging. Her research explored how aging affects the risk of chronic diseases and the role of preventive measures in promoting healthy aging.

Awards and Honors

Throughout her career, Barrett-Connor received numerous awards and honors, including the American Heart Association's Distinguished Scientist Award and the American Diabetes Association's Kelly West Award for Outstanding Achievement in Epidemiology.

Personal Life

Elizabeth Barrett-Connor was married to Dr. John Connor, and they had three children. She passed away on June 9, 2019, at the age of 84.

Legacy

Barrett-Connor's work has had a lasting impact on the fields of epidemiology and public health. Her research continues to inform clinical practices and public health policies aimed at preventing and managing chronic diseases.

See Also

• Epidemiology
• Cardiovascular disease
• Diabetes
• Aging
• University of California, San Diego