Sue Goldie

A decision science expert who received her MPH from HSPH, Goldie develops models that link the basic biology of a disease and its epidemiology to outcomes in large populations. Her focus has been on three major viruses: HIV, hepatitis, and the human papilloma virus (HPV). Collectively, these three viruses--together with the conditions they lead to (AIDS, liver cancer, and cervical cancer, respectively)--amount to an enormous burden of disease worldwide.

"I am passionate about the value of public health and the power of science to make a difference," said Goldie. "I consider it my responsibility to think hard about the best way I can leverage this support from the MacArthur Foundation to really make a difference. That is what my work is about."

Unsatisfied with only disease modeling, Goldie has worked hard to translate her findings into applications that can directly help patients. She has conducted several landmark analyses showing the promise of screening women for cervical cancer once or twice in their lifetime using HPV DNA testing or simple visual screening methods, followed by treatment of precancerous lesions. In comparison to conventional Pap smears, these strategies rely on fewer visits, can be delivered by nonphysicians, and offer cost-effective and more sustainable options for resource-poor settings. They have the potential to cut cervical cancer deaths globally by one-third.

Goldie and colleagues have applied their work on cervical cancer both domestically and internationally. Their analyses have informed and shaped national and international guidelines related to cervical cancer control, and in many instances, their efforts involve partnering with policymakers and relevant stakeholders to ensure relevance to real-world decision making. Most recently, Goldie and her team have been focused on identifying the optimal synergies between new cervical cancer screening approaches and the promising development of an HPV vaccine.

Goldie's mathematical models differ from many models used for cost-effectiveness analysis in that they are "biologically-based," taking into account both epidemiological observations and the mechanics of the disease process as it unfolds. Her models combine information about the natural history of a disease and intervention efficacy with other relevant demographic and epidemiological characteristics of a population.

Goldie points out that in addition to relating biological and clinical information, the models provide both qualitative and quantitative insight into the relative importance of components of the prevention or treatment process and allow investigation of how results will change if values of key parameters are varied.

Said HSPH Dean Barry Bloom of Goldie: "She has a rare ability to go from the most theoretical analysis of decision making in health care to translating that into the real world of both rich and poor countries in a way that has already made an enormous difference in women's health."

The MacArthur Fellows Program offers unrestricted fellowships to talented individuals who have shown extraordinary originality and dedication in their creative pursuits and a marked capacity for self-direction. Goldie, who will receive $500,000 over the next five years, was one of 25 new fellows named for 2005. Nawal Nour, who received her MPH from HSPH, won a MacArthur "Genius" Grant last year for her work in performing reconstructive surgery on women who have been circumcised and for raising awareness about the issue. Female circumcision mostly occurs in Africa.

Information on the MacArthur Fellow Program can be found at: http://www.macfound.org/