A global leader in clinical research and treatment of diabetes
Bernard Zinman, MDCM, is a celebrated clinician scientist whose four decades of contributions have transformed the management of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. As a staggering 10% of Canadians live with diagnosed diabetes, Dr. Zinman’s research on treating this disease and preventing related complications has helped countless patients and their families. He was a lead investigator in the landmark DCCT/EDIC trial, which definitively established the role of intensive diabetes control as the new worldwide standard for reducing the long-term disabling complications of type 1 diabetes. Dr. Zinman also led the EMPA-REG OUTCOME trial. This study marked a paradigm shift in type 2 diabetes care by demonstrating how a diabetes therapy, namely a sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor, could not only improve glucose control but also dramatically decrease cardiovascular complications and death. Many of Dr. Zinman’s findings have been applied to help address heightened rates of type 2 diabetes in Indigenous communities, including through the Sandy Lake Health and Diabetes Project, now in its 35th year. Beyond his prodigious scientific output, Dr. Zinman has mentored generations of other Canadian scientists and clinicians, ensuring his fight against the diabetes epidemic will continue for years to come.
About the CMHF
The Canadian Medical Hall of Fame (CMHF) celebrates Canadian heroes whose work advances health in Canada and the world, fostering future generations of health professionals through the delivery of local and national youth education programs and awards.
This enduring tribute to our country’s rich medical history is showcased here and in our physical exhibit hall in London, ON
