A pioneer in the science and standardization of cervical disease diagnosis, Ronald D. Luff, M.D., M.P.H, and Director of Anatomic Clinical Trials at Quest Diagnostics , recently received a lifetime achievement honor -- the 2006 Papanicolaou Award -- from the American Society of Cytopathology (ASC) at the group's annual scientific meeting in Toronto.
Presented annually to a physician or Ph.D. recognized by their peers for excellence in research and contributions in the field of cytology, the Papanicolaou Award is the ASC's highest honor and is named for the late Greek- American pathologist and cytologist George N. Papanicolaou, who developed the eponymous test, the Pap smear, for the early detection and treatment of cervical cancer.
Dr. Luff received the 2006 Papanicolaou Award for his innumerable contributions to the field of cytology and cytopathology, most notably for his work as the former Chairman of the Editorial Committee for The Bethesda System. In this role, Dr. Luff was instrumental in establishing the first nationwide system to standardize the terminology used in the diagnosis and prevention of cervical disease.
"I am humbled and grateful for the recognition given to me by my peers," said Dr. Luff. "I have made it my life's work to improve diagnosing procedures, enabling more effective treatment."
"Dr. Luff's contribution to the field of cytology supports Quest Diagnostics' commitment to innovation and progressive science," said Joyce G. Schwartz, M.D., Vice President and Chief Laboratory Officer, Quest Diagnostics. "We are extremely proud that the scientists and physicians of Quest Diagnostics, as this award shows, are recognized as among the best and the brightest in medicine today."
About Quest Diagnostics
Quest Diagnostics is the leading provider of diagnostic testing, information and services that patients and doctors need to make better healthcare decisions. The company offers the broadest access to diagnostic testing services through its national network of laboratories and patient service centers, and provides interpretive consultation through its extensive medical and scientific staff. Quest Diagnostics is a pioneer in developing innovative new diagnostic tests and advanced healthcare information technology solutions that help improve patient care. Additional company information is available at: www.questdiagnostics.com.
The statements in this press release that are not historical facts or information may be forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and outcomes to be materially different. Certain of these risks and uncertainties may include, but are not limited to, competitive environment, changes in government regulations, changing relationships with customers, payers, suppliers and strategic partners and other factors described in the Quest Diagnostics Incorporated 2005 Form 10-K and subsequent SEC filings.
SOURCE: Quest Diagnostics
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