Biography
A naturopathic physician (licensed in WA state since 1975), Dr. Joeseph Pizzorno is an educator, researcher, and expert clinician. He is the founding president of Bastyr University (1978), and he coined the term “science-based natural medicine,” which set the foundation for Bastyr to become the first accredited institution in the field of naturopathy.
Dr. Pizzorno validated that an approach to medicine which promotes health, rather than just treats disease, could be researched, taught, and practiced. As co-author of the Textbook of Natural Medicine (first edition 1985, fifth edition 2020), he established the scientific foundation for health promotion medicine. With over 100,000 copies sold in four languages, this important publication helped to reestablish naturopathic medicine as an integral part of the healthcare system, and provided the scientific foundation for the transformational fields of integrative and Functional Medicine.
Dr. Pizzorno is the editor-in-chief of Integrative Medicine: A Clinicians Journal (ICMJ), a founding board member and currently chair of the board of the Institute of Functional Medicine, a founding board member of American Herbal Pharmacopoeia, and a member of the science boards of the Hecht Foundation, Gateway for Cancer Research, and Bioclinic Naturals. He was appointed by Presidents Clinton and Bush to two prestigious government commissions to advise the President and Congress on how to integrate natural medicine within the healthcare system. He is author or co-author of six textbooks for health care professionals, and seven consumer books – including the Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine, and most recently, The Toxin Solution.
As an intellectual, political, and academic leader in medicine for over four decades, he has been widely honored, including as a recipient of the Linus Pauling Award by The Institute for Functional Medicine. In 2018, he received the Leadership Award from the Integrative Healthcare Symposium and the Visionary Award from the Academy of Integrative and Health Medicine. Most recently, in 2019, he received the Stanley Wallach Award from the American College of Nutrition.
Presentation Abstract
Arsenic Exposure: Mitigation and Detoxification
Arsenic is the number one toxin in North America and a primary cause of many chronic diseases. Although humans are good at eliminating arsenic (half-life typically 2-4 days), virtually everyone is constantly exposed though drinking water, foods (especially rice and chicken), cigarettes, some residential areas, old wooden climbing toys, occupational exposure, and cosmetics. Approximately 1/3 of the population suffers levels known to induce disease in humans. The main diseases are surprisingly diverse, such as the major cancers, diabetes, gout, herpes zoster and cardiovascular disease. Average levels are increasing and flavonoids protective against arsenic are leaving the food supply due to chemical farming techniques.
This presentation provides clinicians with research documenting the problem and clear guidance on assessment of arsenic toxicity and ways to decrease exposure and support safe elimination.
