An internationally renowned Cambridge clinician who identified the leading genetic cause of obesity receives top honours for her work.
Professor Sadaf Farooqi, a consultant at Cambridge University Hospitals and researcher at The Wellcome-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science at Cambridge University, discovered that some people inherit a particular gene that greatly increases the risk of obesity.
This research breakthrough means patients with this gene can now be diagnosed and better helped to maintain a healthy weight avoiding obesity-related diseases including diabetes, heart disease, and some cancers.
Already internationally recognised, Prof Farooqi is a fellow of the Royal Society, a Fellow of the Academy of Medical Science and world leader in endocrinology; how glands and hormones affect metabolism. Now she is to receive the prestigious Outstanding Clinical Investigator Award 2024 from the Endocrine Society.
Prof Farooqi said:
I am delighted and honoured to receive this prestigious award which recognises the dedication and contributions of past and present team members.
"I would particularly like to thank the many patients and volunteers who have contributed to our clinical research over the years, allowing us to find new ways to diagnose and treat people with severe obesity.
"Obesity is a leading cause of so many diseases. By better understanding what affects metabolism from a genetic viewpoint we can help people live healthier lives right from childhood, better understanding how their bodies work and the impact exercise and food on a more personal level."
Professor Farooqi joins 14 leading endocrinologists worldwide who are to receive one of the Endocrine Society 2024 Laureate Awards, which recognise significant contributions to understanding the role of metabolism in preventing and treating disease.