Frances Oldham Kelsey
Frances Oldham Kelsey (pronounced: /ˈfrænsɪz ˈoʊldəm ˈkɛlsi/; July 24, 1914 – August 7, 2015) was a Canadian-American pharmacologist and physician. As a reviewer for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), she refused to authorize Thalidomide for market because she had concerns about the drug's safety. Her concerns proved to be justified when it was shown that Thalidomide caused serious birth defects. Kelsey's work on the Thalidomide case resulted in major reforms in the FDA's drug approval process, making her a heroine of the Thalidomide scandal.
Etymology
The name Frances is of Latin origin and means "free one". Oldham is of English origin and is a habitational name from Oldham in Lancashire, named with the Old English elements eald ‘old’ + ham ‘homestead’. Kelsey is also of English origin and means "victorious ship".
Early life and education
Frances Oldham Kelsey was born in Cobble Hill, British Columbia, Canada. She completed her undergraduate degree in biology at Victoria College in British Columbia, and received her master's degree and Ph.D. in pharmacology from the University of Chicago.
Career
Kelsey began her career as a research assistant at the University of Chicago. In 1960, she joined the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a reviewer. She is best known for her work on the Thalidomide case.
Thalidomide case
In 1960, Kelsey was assigned to review a new drug application for Thalidomide, a sedative that had been marketed in Europe as a treatment for morning sickness in pregnant women. Kelsey had concerns about the drug's safety and refused to approve it for the U.S. market. Her decision was vindicated when it was discovered that Thalidomide caused serious birth defects.
Legacy
Kelsey's work on the Thalidomide case led to major reforms in the FDA's drug approval process, including stricter testing requirements and greater transparency. She is considered a heroine of the Thalidomide scandal and was awarded the President's Award for Distinguished Federal Civilian Service by President John F. Kennedy.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Frances Oldham Kelsey
- Wikipedia's article - Frances Oldham Kelsey
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