Reeta Sanyal: A Trailblazing Indian-American Gastroenterologist

Early Life and Education

Reeta Sanyal is a renowned Indian-American gastroenterologist who has made significant contributions to the field of liver disease research. Born in Kolkata, India, she moved to the United States with her family at a young age.

Sanyal completed her undergraduate studies at Princeton University, earning a degree in molecular biology. She then went on to pursue a medical degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine.

Career and Research

After completing her residency and fellowship training in gastroenterology, Sanyal joined the faculty at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) in 1996. It was there that she established the Liver Research Center, which has become a leading institution for liver disease research and clinical care.

Sanyal's research primarily focuses on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a condition that affects an increasing number of people worldwide. Her work has led to significant discoveries regarding the pathophysiology of NAFLD and the development of novel therapeutic approaches.

Awards and Recognition

Sanyal's contributions to the field of gastroenterology have been widely recognized. She is a recipient of numerous awards, including the Distinguished Scientist Award from the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) and the AGA Institute Research Scholar Award.

Sanyal is also an elected member of the National Academy of Medicine and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. In 2022, she was named one of the "100 Most Influential People in Healthcare" by Modern Healthcare magazine.

Advocacy and Outreach

Beyond her research and clinical work, Sanyal is also an active advocate for patients with liver disease. She has served on the board of the American Liver Foundation and is a member of the AASLD Public Policy Committee.

Sanyal is committed to raising awareness about liver disease and improving access to care for underserved communities. She believes that everyone deserves the opportunity to live a healthy life, regardless of their socioeconomic status or background.

Personal Life

Reeta Sanyal is married to Dr. Arun Sanyal, a cardiologist. They have two children together. Sanyal enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and playing the piano.