Michael H.Criqui, MD, MPH, FAHA, professor and chief of the Division of Preventative Medicine in the Department of Family and Preventative Medicine at the University of California, San Diego was honored as a Distinguished Scientist by the American Heart Association (AHA) at this year's AHA Scientific Sessions in Chicago, Illinois. This is the highest honor given by the AHA.

In 2003, the American Heart Association created a Distinguished Scientist designation to honor AHA/ASA members who have made extraordinary contributions to cardiovascular and stroke research. This title recognizes seminal research work that has importantly advanced the understanding and management of cardiovascular disease or stroke.

Criqui is one of five honorees this year to join the ranks of 65 other preeminent researchers and scientists. He is an active and productive investigator in cardiovascular epidemiology and preventive cardiology, and has made seminal contributions in the fields of peripheral arterial disease, subclinical atherosclerosis and peripheral venous disease. Criqui has published over 385 manuscripts and book chapters and has been an invited lecturer at numerous national and international meetings.