Newswise — The Interamerican Society of Cardiology (Sociedad Interamericana de Cardiologia, also commonly referred to as IASC) honored Dr. Valentin Fuster of Mount Sinai Medical Center, President of the World Heart Federation with The Distinguished Researcher Award in recognition of his contribution to the field of Cardiology.

Dr. Marco A. Martínez-Ríos, President Elect of the IASC, presented the award to Dr. Fuster at the Interamerican Congress of Cardiology XX held in Cancun Q.R. México on January 29th. More than 1500 cardiologists from the United States, Canada, Central America and South America were in attendance.

The Distinguished Researcher Award is given to the scientist who has made significant and well-recognized contributions to cardiovascular medical research with publications in peer reviewed journals.

"We chose Dr. Fuster for his outstanding contribution to the study of atherosclerosis," states Dr. Marco A. Martínez-Ríos. "He is widely considered a leader in modern medicine and a key to the global advancement of cardiovascular research."

"The Interamerican Society of Cardiology has been instrumental in uniting cardiovascular societies of the Americas to develop and advance the field of cardiovascular science," shares Dr. Fuster. "To be recognized by such a prominent organization is truly an honor."

Dr. Fuster is the only cardiologist to receive all four major research awards from the 4 major cardiovascular organizations: The Distinguished Researcher Award (IASC, 2005), Andreas Gruntzig Scientific Award (European Society of Cardiology, 1992), Distinguished Scientist (American Heart Association, 2003), and the Distinguished Scientist Award (American College of Cardiology, 1993).

MOUNT SINAI SCHOOL OF MEDICINELocated in Manhattan, Mount Sinai School of Medicine is internationally recognized for ground-breaking clinical and basic-science research, and innovative approaches to medical education. Through the Mount Sinai Graduate School of Biological Sciences, Mount Sinai trains biomedical researchers with an emphasis on the rapid translation of discoveries of basic research into new techniques for fighting disease. One indication of Mount Sinai's leadership in scientific investigation is its receipt during fiscal year 2004 of $153.2 million. Mount Sinai now ranks 25th among the nation's medical schools in receipt of research support from NIH. Mount Sinai School of Medicine also is known for unique educational programs such as the Humanities in Medicine program, which creates opportunities for liberal arts students to pursue medical school, and instructional innovations like The Morchand Center, the nation's largest program teaching students and physicians with "standardized patients" to become not only highly skilled, but compassionate caregivers. Long dedicated to improving its community, the School extends its boundaries to work with East Harlem and surrounding communities to provide access to health care and educational programs to at risk populations. THE INTERAMERICAN SOCIETY OF CARDIOLOGYThe Interamerican Society of Cardiology is the Association of the National Cardiology Societies of the American Continent. Its mission is to promote optimal cardiovascular health and healthcare for all people of the Americas through education and continued professional development.