Frances Oldham Kelsey was an amazing woman who made a big difference in how medicines are regulated in the United States. She was born in Canada in 1914 and loved science from a young age.
After getting her Ph.D. in pharmacology from the University of Chicago in 1938, Kelsey started a career that would change history. In 1960, she began working for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), where her job was to check if new drugs were safe before they could be sold.
Her biggest challenge came with a drug called thalidomide, which was popular in Europe as a treatment for nausea and as a sedative. Even though the drug company wanted it approved in the U.S., Kelsey carefully studied its safety data and decided it wasn't safe enough. This decision saved many American babies from being born with severe birth defects, unlike in Europe where thousands were affected.
But Frances Oldham Kelsey's impact went beyond just thalidomide. She fought to make sure that all drugs in the U.S. were safe for people to use. She stood up against the pressure from powerful drug companies and put public health first.
Looking at her story through a feminist lens, we see a woman who succeeded in a field mostly run by men. Despite facing sexism, Kelsey rose to a top position at the FDA. Her actions showed that women could lead in important scientific jobs and make crucial decisions about public safety.
Kelsey's work also showed a feminist approach to healthcare. By prioritizing safety, especially for women and unborn babies, she highlighted the importance of considering women's health in medical decisions.
Celebrating Frances Oldham Kelsey means not just recognizing her personal achievements, but also honoring the fight for gender equality and women's rights. Her story reminds us of the power of women's voices and the need for diverse perspectives in making important decisions.
Sources:Â