A West Virginia University vascular surgeon whose research focuses on stroke prevention will give the next Benedum Distinguished Scholar Awards lecture at 4 p.m. Wednesday, April 12, in the Robert C. Byrd Health Sciences Center, Hostler Auditorium.
Dr. Ali F. AbuRahma, who teaches, practices and does research at the Health Sciences Centers Charleston Division, will lecture on Stroke (Brain Attack): An American Tragedy; What Everyone Should Know About It. A reception will follow. The event is open to the public.
AbuRahma is one of four recipients of this years Benedum Awards, which recognize WVU faculty for achievements in research, scholarship and creative endeavors. Other 1999-2000 winners are James Harms, associate professor of English; Ronald Balvers, professor of economics; and Harry Gingold, professor of mathematics. Each recipient receives a $2,500 award and gives a lecture related to his field.
AbuRahma, whose award is in biosciences and health sciences, is professor of surgery and chief of vascular surgery at WVUs Charleston Division. He specializes in the medical and surgical treatment of diseases of the blood vessels. This includes carotid artery disease, which can lead to strokes.
He has devoted his career to research related to vascular medicine. His latest research involves perfecting a surgical procedure called carotid endarterectomy, which involves removing a blockage from the carotid artery in the neck to prevent strokes.
Born in Palestine, AbuRahma studied medicine at Alexandria University in Egypt on a United Nations scholarship. He completed his post-graduate surgical residency training at Alexandria University Hospital, State University of New York and WVU , Charleston Division.
After completing a vascular surgical fellowship at the Arizona Heart Institute, he returned to WVUs Charleston Division in 1978 to work. In addition to his teaching and practice at WVU , he has been medical director of the Vascular Laboratory at Charleston Area Medical Center since 1978.
He lives in Charleston with his wife, Marion, and three children.
The Benedum and Distinguished Professors of WVU created the Benedum Distinguished Scholar Awards in 1985-86. The awards recognize either a single recent achievement of note or a long, distinguished career that is still ongoing. The program is funded by the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation and coordinated by the Office of Academic Affairs and Research.