DALLAS, Oct. 7, 2026 — Lawrence J. Appel, M.D., M.P.H., FAHA, a distinguished researcher in nutrition and high blood pressure, will receive the 2026 Research Achievement Award from the American Heart Association (AHA) during its Scientific Sessions from Nov. 6-9, 2026, in Chicago. The award will be presented during the Presidential Session on Sunday, Nov. 8, 2026.
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Dr. Appel, a professor at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and Bloomberg School of Public Health, is renowned for his work on interventions for preventing and treating high blood pressure and related cardiovascular and kidney conditions. His research encompasses various controlled studies and lifestyle interventions aimed at improving hypertension management.
In a statement, Manesh R. Patel, M.D., FAHA, AHA's 2026-2027 volunteer president, praised Dr. Appel’s contributions, linking healthy dietary practices to hypertension and cardiovascular improvements. Dr. Appel's landmark Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) trial, published in 1997, proved that a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy could significantly lower blood pressure. The DASH diet is now a foundational recommendation for hypertension management worldwide.
Dr. Appel also contributed to the DASH-Sodium trial, which highlighted the benefits of sodium reduction on blood pressure, further demonstrating that combining a DASH diet with lower sodium intake provides optimal results.
His research extends to the OmniHeart trial, which indicated that substituting dietary carbohydrates with protein or unsaturated fats could yield additional health benefits. Recently, he led the DASH4D trial, focusing on a DASH-style diet tailored for adults with Type 2 diabetes, finding that combining this diet with sodium reduction resulted in notable decreases in blood pressure.
Beyond his dietary studies, Dr. Appel has been involved in major behavioral intervention trials, including the PREMIER trial, which integrated weight loss and physical activity with the DASH eating plan. His work has transitioned lifestyle research into practical applications within healthcare settings.
Dr. Appel also has made significant contributions to kidney research through studies such as the African American Study of Kidney Disease and Hypertension, enhancing understanding of chronic kidney disease progression and its cardiovascular risks.
In expressing gratitude for the award, Dr. Appel acknowledged the collaborative effort of his colleagues throughout his career. He has been an active member of the AHA Councils on Epidemiology and Prevention and Lifestyle and Cardiometabolic Health, among other roles, and has authored more than 700 scientific publications.
Dr. Appel earned his medical degree from New York University and his Master of Public Health from Johns Hopkins University. He has received numerous recognitions, including being elected to the National Academy of Medicine in 2012 and the Association of American Physicians in 2015.