Robarts Research Institute at Western announced the 2009 recipient of the J. Allyn Taylor International Prize in Medicine.

This year’s prize was awarded to cardiovascular researcher Garret FitzGerald, a professor from the University of Pennsylvania, for his contributions to the field of cardiovascular health.

“[FitzGerald] is a brilliant scientist and his exceptional leadership in cardiovascular research makes him a most deserving recipient,” Murray Huff, a member of the selection committee for the Taylor Prize, commented. “[FitzGerald’s research] has resulted in dramatic and significant changes to clinical practice.”

He was the first scientist to discover anti-inflammatory drugs, particularly the popularly prescribed Vioxx, actually increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. His research also contributed to the everyday use of Aspirin as a method to prevent heart disease.

FitzGerald presented his latest research at the Taylor Cardiovascular Research Symposium at Western’s University Hospital yesterday. Following the symposium Fitzgerald accepted the award and the $10,000 prize.

—Michael Wheeler