Wethers, Doris L.
1927-2019 · Contribution: 1958-2006
Pediatrician and sickle cell specialist
Pediatrics and sickle cell disease; established hospital sickle cell programs and led the national push for universal newborn screening

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Quick facts
- Born
- 1927, Passaic, New Jersey
- Active since
- 1952
- Category
- Science & Medicine
- Best known for
- Leading the push for universal newborn sickle cell screening
Impact on the world
Wethers turned scattered sickle cell testing into a national standard, ensuring that newborns are screened so the disease can be managed from birth.
Sources
- Sickle Cell Disease Association of America
1 more sources and references are available to members.
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