Heather Zar
Heather J Zar | |
|---|---|
| Born | South Africa |
| Occupation(s) | Medical doctor, researcher, professor |
| Known for | Expertise in pediatric respiratory conditions; invention of affordable asthma spacers from repurposed plastic bottles |
Heather J Zar is a South African medical doctor and researcher with expertise in pediatric respiratory conditions, including asthma, tuberculosis, and pneumonia.
Career and impact
Professor Zar holds the position of Chair for the Department of Paediatrics and Child Health at the University of Cape Town and is the current President of the Pan African Thoracic Society. Her investigations into lung diseases associated with HIV/AIDS have contributed to shaping treatment protocols at both the World Health Organization and national levels. She is internationally acknowledged for inventing affordable asthma spacers crafted from repurposed plastic bottles, enhancing access to inhaled therapies for children.
She directs a long-term cohort study involving approximately 1,000 children aimed at uncovering early-life determinants of respiratory health and formulating preventive interventions. As an elected member of the Academy of Science of South Africa, she has authored in excess of 200 peer-reviewed publications.
Awards and honors
- American Thoracic Society World Lung Health Award, 2014
- L'Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Awards, 2018