May Owen

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

May Owen (1896–1988) was an American pathologist known for her work in the field of medical science. She was the first woman to serve as president of the Texas Medical Association and was a pioneer in the study of the effects of talc on the human body.

Early Life and Education[edit | edit source]

May Owen was born on November 3, 1896, in Fort Worth, Texas. She attended the University of Texas where she received her Bachelor of Arts degree in 1917. She then went on to earn her medical degree from the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston in 1921.

Career[edit | edit source]

After completing her medical degree, Owen began her career as a pathologist at the Tarrant County Hospital in Fort Worth. She later became the chief pathologist at the hospital, a position she held for over 40 years.

Owen was known for her research on the effects of talc on the human body. She discovered that talc, when used in surgical gloves, could cause foreign body reactions and granulomas in patients. This led to changes in the manufacturing of surgical gloves and a reduction in post-surgical complications.

In 1960, Owen became the first woman to serve as president of the Texas Medical Association. She was also a member of the American Medical Association and the College of American Pathologists.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

Owen's contributions to the field of pathology and her pioneering work on the effects of talc on the human body have had a lasting impact on medical science. She is remembered for her dedication to her profession and her commitment to improving patient care.

References[edit | edit source]


External links[edit | edit source]

May Owen Resources

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD