DeBakey Awards to Recognize Excellence in Biomedical Research Journalism

WASHINGTON, April 10 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ --- Entries for the eighth annual Michael E. DeBakey Journalism Awards, presented by the Foundation for Biomedical Research (FBR) and named after FBR's chairman, are now being accepted.

The competition is open to all professional journalists whose reporting has enhanced public understanding and support for medical and scientific discovery involving the humane and responsible use of animal models.

"Dr. DeBakey's many inventions and innovations have led to pioneering treatments and innovative surgical techniques used in operating rooms around the country every day," said FBR President Frankie L. Trull. "The DeBakey Award honors excellent journalists who convey complex biomedical research issues with stunning clarity."

Six separate awards will be presented for outstanding investigative or interpretive reporting that was published, broadcast or posted online between April 1, 2007, and March 31, 2008. Award winners will receive:

-- a $2,000 cash prize;

-- a Michael E. DeBakey Award in the print, TV, radio, Internet, or international market; and

-- a trip to Washington, D.C., to attend the awards ceremony held on June 23, 2008, at the Mayflower Hotel

Dr. Michael E. DeBakey is the nation's foremost surgeon, inventor, educator and medical statesman.

Dr. DeBakey performed the world's first successful coronary bypass in 1964. Two years later, he successfully used a partial artificial heart to help patients who could not be weaned from a heart-lung machine following open-heart surgery.

DeBakey himself is no stranger to awards. On April 23, 2008, he will receive the Congressional Medal of Honor in Washington. He has also received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from Lyndon B. Johnson in 1969 and the National Medal of Science from Ronald Reagan in 1987.

Entries to the 2007-2008 Michael E. DeBakey Journalism Awards must be postmarked or received by April 30, 2008. For more information, visit http://www.fbresearch.org/debakey.

FBR is the nation's foremost organization devoted to promoting public understanding, respect and support for the humane and responsible use of animals in medical and scientific research. For more information on FBR, please visit its Web site at www.fbrresearch.org

SOURCE Foundation for Biomedical Research