Joseph Francis Fraumeni

Known for his central role in the discovery of Li-Fraumeni syndrome, which predisposes to multiple forms of cancer through germline mutations of an important tumor-suppressor gene (p53), and in the detection of several environmental carcinogens, leading to preventative measures at the regional and national level. In studies of high-risk communities identified by a county-by-county mapping strategy, he helped uncover excess cancer risks associated with arsenic, asbestos, herbicides, smokeless tobacco and other exposures. Leader of national research and training program in cancer epidemiology with more than 800 publications, including books on the causes and prevention of cancer. Recipient, Charles S. Mott Prize from the General Motors Cancer Research Foundation, and Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Assocaition for Cancer Research. Member, National Academy of Sciences, Institute of Medicine, and Association of American Physicians.