Česká hlava prizes - recognising excellence in science - awarded

Oncologist and haematologist Pavel Klener, cardiologist Jan Pirk, and epidemiologist Ervín Adam have received Česká hlava awards recognising excellence in science and technology. Mr Klener received the top prize for a pioneering method of chemotherapy to combat malignant tumours. The award for Innovation went to Jan Pirk for groundbreaking use of mechanical pumps capable of replacing the human heart. The pumps, in cases where there is no other option, buy patients extra time for a heart transplant. In an operation earlier this year, the system extended the life of a Czech fire fighter by six months. Epidemiologist Ervín Adam, who is 90 years old, received the Patria prize for his work in combating polio.