Feinstein Institute Researcher Honored as 30-Year New York Academy of Medicine Fellow

MANHASSET, NY– Feinstein Institute for Medical Research provost and researcher Bettie Steinberg, PhD, was recently honored by the New York Academy of Medicine (NYAM) for her 30-year tenure as a fellow during the organization’s 169th Anniversary Discourse & Awards.

A NYAM fellow is a distinguished professional in medical and health professions, elected by their peers, who embody the highest levels of achievement and leadership. Fellows span a wide range of disciplines including medicine, nursing, social work, public health, administration, and government. Dr. Steinberg was recognized for her innovative research and contributions to the understanding of human papillomaviruses (HPVs) and their role in diseases of the head and neck, as well as to the understanding of cancer metastasis. 

“Whether I’m embarking on a research study or contributing as part of an NYAM workgroup, the mission that motivates me is to help to improve the quality of life for everyone,” said Dr. Steinberg. “It is an honor to be recognized by the NYAM for this continuing commitment.” 

Major areas of study for Dr. Steinberg during her career have been HPV and its target cells, the role of the immune system in controlling HPV-induced diseases, activation of latent HPV infection, and studies on HPV-induced head and neck cancer. One particular condition she has focused on is recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP), a rare disease that affects both children and adults. The papillomas in RRP patients are benign, but the disease causes significant suffering and can even be fatal because the papillomas can block the airway. The only approved treatment is surgical removal under general anesthesia, with all of its risks, but the papillomas often recur rapidly, resulting in frequent surgeries. Through her work studying how HPV interacts with the body and the biology of papillomas, Dr. Steinberg and her team have a better understanding of the disease’s mechanisms which is leading to more targeted treatment.

 
About The Feinstein Institute 

The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research is the research arm of Northwell Health, the largest healthcare provider in New York. Home to 50 research laboratories and to clinical research throughout dozens of hospitals and outpatient facilities, the 2,000 researchers and staff of the Feinstein are making breakthroughs in molecular medicine, genetics, oncology, brain research, mental health, autoimmunity, and bioelectronic medicine – a new field of science that has the potential to revolutionize medicine. For more information about how we empower imagination and pioneer discovery, visit FeinsteinInstitute.org. 

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Heather E. Ball
516-562-0325
hball@northwell.edu

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