The Nov. 25 article “Colleagues defend Califf amid criticisms of industry ties” does not provide a full picture of Dr. Califf’s lifelong commitment to patients, his reputation for being a person of great integrity and the scientific rigor he has insisted upon as a researcher his entire life.
As members of Duke Cancer Institute’s Board of Advisors, and as individuals who have been profoundly impacted by cancer—Ellen having lost her sister and Estelle a 19 year survivor—we felt compelled to make sure that the Duke community fully appreciates the incredible contributions Dr. Califf had made to science and patient care. It is also important to understand that our current federal funding is wholly insufficient and that partnering with industry is necessary and essential in order for new cures to be discovered.
We cannot think of a better choice than Dr. Califf to head the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and are confident that he will implement the proper strategies that will protect the public, encourage innovation and ensure patients have access to the best available treatments. We are proud to have such an exceptional individual from the Duke community leading an agency that plays such a crucial role in our everyday lives and in advancing treatments to save lives.
Ellen Sigal & Estelle Vernon
Board of Advisors
Duke Cancer Institute
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