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Pollin Prize

Basil S. Hetzel, AC, MD, FRCP is the 2009 recipient of the Pollin Prize for outstanding achievement in pediatric research.

Dr. Basil S. Hetzel

His pioneering work led to our understanding of the effects of iodine deficiency on brain development – and the importance of incorporating iodized salt in the diet to prevent brain damage in newborns.

Dr. Hetzel's research team in Papua New Guinea (1964-1972) established that brain damage could be prevented by correction of iodine deficiency before pregnancy. This groundbreaking research led him to begin a worldwide campaign to incorporate iodized salt into the diets of more than two billion people in some 130 countries where iodine is lacking.

The World Health Organization now recognizes that iodine deficiency is the most common preventable cause of brain damage in the world today.

Dr. Hetzel's efforts have prevented brain damage in millions of children. We honor his vision, leadership and discovery.

Previous Pollin Prize Recipients

2002

Norbert Hirschorn, MD, Dilip Mahalanabis, MD, David R. Nalin, MD and Nathiel F. Pierce, MD for Oral Rehydration Therapy

2003

Emil Frei III, MD, Emil J. Freireich, MD, Donald Pinkel, MD and James F. Holland, MD for Development of Curative Treatments for Childhood Leukemia

2004

Alfred Sommer, MD, MHS for Vitamin A: The 20-Cent Solution

2005

Eric N. Olson, PhD and Abraham M. Rudolph, MD for Advances in Understanding Congenital Cardiac Malformations

2006

(No Award)

2007

Samuel L. Katz, MD for the Development and Implementation of the Measles Vaccine

2008

John Allen Clements, MD for Development of Lifesaving Treatment for Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS) in Infants