Étienne-Émile Baulieu, the French scientist revered for developing the abortion pill mifepristone, also known as RU-486, has passed away at 98 in his Paris home, as confirmed by his widow. Known for providing millions of women worldwide with a safe and affordable alternative to surgical abortion, his impact on women's reproductive rights is profound. French President Emmanuel Macron honored Dr. Baulieu as "a beacon of courage" and credited him with enabling women to achieve freedom. Throughout his distinguished career, Dr. Baulieu emphasized the importance of human dignity and scientific progress, particularly in women's health. Born Étienne Blum in 1926, he became a member of the French resistance at just 15, changing his name in the face of Nazi occupation. His partnership with Dr. Gregory Pincus in the U.S. guided him towards hormonal research that eventually led to his development of RU-486. Despite facing fierce opposition and struggles for international acceptance of the drug, he remained unwavering in his pursuit of women's rights. His dedication to science continued in recent years as he explored treatments for Alzheimer’s and severe depression. As a pioneering figure in reproductive health, Baulieu's legacy is one of resilience and dedication to improving human lives.
French Pioneer of Abortion Pill, Étienne-Émile Baulieu, Passes Away at 98
French Pioneer of Abortion Pill, Étienne-Émile Baulieu, Passes Away at 98
Tributes pour in for the scientist instrumental in women's reproductive rights
Étienne-Émile Baulieu, renowned for his groundbreaking work on the abortion pill RU-486, has died at the age of 98, leaving behind a legacy that significantly advanced women's health globally.
Étienne-Émile Baulieu, the French scientist revered for developing the abortion pill mifepristone, also known as RU-486, has passed away at 98 in his Paris home, as confirmed by his widow. Known for providing millions of women worldwide with a safe and affordable alternative to surgical abortion, his impact on women's reproductive rights is profound. French President Emmanuel Macron honored Dr. Baulieu as "a beacon of courage" and credited him with enabling women to achieve freedom. Throughout his distinguished career, Dr. Baulieu emphasized the importance of human dignity and scientific progress, particularly in women's health. Born Étienne Blum in 1926, he became a member of the French resistance at just 15, changing his name in the face of Nazi occupation. His partnership with Dr. Gregory Pincus in the U.S. guided him towards hormonal research that eventually led to his development of RU-486. Despite facing fierce opposition and struggles for international acceptance of the drug, he remained unwavering in his pursuit of women's rights. His dedication to science continued in recent years as he explored treatments for Alzheimer’s and severe depression. As a pioneering figure in reproductive health, Baulieu's legacy is one of resilience and dedication to improving human lives.
