Jacinto Convit is gone

Renowned Venezuelan doctor and scientist Jacinto Convit passed away today in Caracas. He was 100 years old. His life was full of great achievements, including the development of...

Jacinto ConvitRenowned Venezuelan doctor and scientist Jacinto Convit passed away today in Caracas. He was 100 years old. His life was full of great achievements, including the development of a vaccine for leprosy in the late 80s, after several decades of research.

Because of it, he won the 1987 Prince of Asturias Award for Technical and Scientific Research – shared with Mexican neuroscientist Pablo Rudomin – and was nominated for the Nobel Price for Medicine. He kept working until recently, including on the development of new immunotherapy against cancer. A documentary feature about his life was released earlier this year.

Almost three months ago, we lost one of the greatest Venezuelans. Today, we have lost another. Our condolences to the family, friends and associates of Mr. Convit. One can hope his legacy will inspire others to continue his labor.

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