A Dedicated Woman - Helen Van Slyke

A Dedicated Woman: Helen Van Slyke

Helen Van Slyke was a pioneering American biochemist who made significant contributions to the field of blood chemistry. Her work laid the foundation for modern blood analysis and helped to improve the diagnosis and treatment of diseases such as diabetes, kidney disease, and cancer.

Early Life and Education

Helen Van Slyke was born in Geneva, New York, in 1879. She showed an early aptitude for science and mathematics, and she went on to study chemistry at the University of Michigan. After graduating in 1903, she worked as a research assistant at the Rockefeller Institute for Medical Research in New York City.

Research and Discoveries

At the Rockefeller Institute, Van Slyke began working on the development of new methods for analyzing blood. She developed a technique for measuring the concentration of carbon dioxide in blood, which was a major breakthrough in the field of blood chemistry. This technique allowed doctors to diagnose and treat respiratory problems such as pneumonia and emphysema.

Van Slyke also developed a method for measuring the concentration of urea in blood, which is a waste product of protein metabolism. This technique helped doctors to diagnose and treat kidney disease.

In addition to her work on blood chemistry, Van Slyke also made contributions to the field of nutrition. She developed a method for measuring the vitamin C content of foods, which helped to improve the diagnosis and treatment of scurvy.

Later Life and Legacy

Van Slyke continued to work as a research scientist until her retirement in 1948. She published over 200 scientific papers and received numerous awards for her work, including the Garvan Medal from the American Chemical Society and the Lasker Award from the American Public Health Association.

Helen Van Slyke died in 1972 at the age of 93. She is remembered as a pioneering scientist who made significant contributions to the field of blood chemistry and helped to improve the diagnosis and treatment of diseases.

Why You Should Read This Book

A Dedicated Woman is a fascinating biography of a remarkable woman who made a significant impact on the field of science. Van Slyke's story is an inspiration to anyone who is interested in science, medicine, or women's history.

This book is well-written and engaging, and it provides a wealth of information about Van Slyke's life and work. It is a must-read for anyone who is interested in the history of science or in the lives of inspiring women.

Where to Buy

A Dedicated Woman is available for purchase online and in bookstores.