Mthatha-born cardiologist only African elected to prestigious US academy

MTHATHA-born cardiology professor Bongani Mayosi has been elected to the US National Academy of Medicine (NAM), making him the only African among the international organisation’s newly elected members.

The University of Cape Town (UCT) faculty of health sciences dean was one of 80 US and international members elected during the NAM’s annual meeting in Washington DC on Monday.

Professionals also elected to the NAM with Mayosi hail from countries including Australia, China, the UK, France, the Netherlands, India, Japan and Thailand.

Election to the NAM is considered one of the highest honours in the fields of health and medicine.

It recognises individuals who have demonstrated outstanding professional achievement and commitment to service.

Mayosi, 50, said he held his latest accolade in high esteem.

“I feel honoured to be elected as an international member of the National Academy of Medicine of the United States,” he said.

“I am indebted to my mentors, my students, my collaborators and, above all, my wife and children who have supported and inspired me over the years.”

With their election, members make a commitment to volunteer their services to the NAM’s aspiration of encouraging education and research, to recognise outstanding contributions to knowledge, and to increase public understanding.

NAM president Victor Dzau said the newly elected members represented the most exceptional scholars and leaders in science, medicine and health in the US and around the globe.

“Their expertise will help our organisation to address today’s most pressing health challenges and inform the future of health and healthcare to benefit us all,” he said.

“I am honoured to welcome these distinguished individuals to the National Academy of Medicine.”

Among other portfolios he holds, Mayosi has, since 2011, advised Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi on the policy and strategy for health research in his capacity as the National Health Research committee chairman.

The NAM describes itself as an independent organisation of eminent professionals from diverse fields including health and medicine, the natural, social, and behavioural sciences and beyond.

It serves alongside the National Academy of Sciences and the National Academy of Engineering as an adviser to the US nation and the international community.

Through its domestic and global initiatives, the NAM works to address critical issues in health, medicine and related policy, and inspire positive action across diverse sectors.