Virginia Apgar, a renowned obstetrical anaesthesiologist from America, is best known for her invention of the ‘Apgar Score’, a standard and simple method used to assess the viability of newborns immediately after birth. This method, still followed by doctors today, has greatly contributed to the evaluation of newborn health. Apgar’s groundbreaking work also led to her becoming the first woman to hold the rank of a full professor at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons for anaesthesiology. With expertise in teratology, a then-emerging field in the study of birth defects in babies, Apgar’s dedication to medicine resulted in the development of medical measures that significantly reduced infant mortality. From an early age, Apgar displayed a keen interest in science and medicine, which she inherited from her father. Her exceptional skills in science during high school led her to pursue a career as a physician. As a student, she demonstrated boundless energy, participating in various sports teams, contributing to school dramatics, working for the college newspaper, and even playing the violin. Apgar’s unwavering enthusiasm for learning propelled her to leave a lasting impact on medical history.
Quick Facts
- Died At Age: 65
- Family: Spouse/Ex-: Sylvie Leflet, siblings: Julian Birley
- Born Country: United States
- Inventors
- American Women
- Died on: August 7, 1974
- Place of death: New York City, New York, United States
- U.S. State: New Jersey
- More Facts
- Education: Mount Holyoke College, Johns Hopkins University, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Columbia University
Childhood & Early Life
Virginia Apgar was born in Westfield, New Jersey on June 7, 1909. She was the third and youngest child of Charles Emory Apgar and Helen May Apgar. Her father was a businessman and had a laboratory in his basement where he experimented with radio waves and electricity. This early exposure to science may have sparked her interest in the field. Apgar also had a passion for music and played in the orchestra at Westfield High School. She graduated from high school in 1925.
Education and Career
After deciding to become a doctor, Apgar attended Mount Holyoke College and graduated in 1929. She supported herself through college by working various jobs, including as a librarian and waitress. To continue her studies at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, Apgar had to borrow money and accumulate debt. This was a challenging time as the United States was in the midst of the Great Depression.
Apgar received her medical degree in 1933 and ranked fourth in her class. Due to her financial situation, she chose to pursue a career in anesthesiology, a field that offered more job security. She completed her certification in anesthesia in 1937 and became the director of the division of anesthesia at Columbia University in 1938. Despite facing discrimination as a female doctor, Apgar expanded the department and secured funding for it.
In 1953, Apgar invented the “Apgar score,” a system for assessing the health of newborns. This score evaluates the infant’s appearance, pulse, grimace, activity, and respiration. It helps determine if the baby needs immediate medical attention. Apgar’s score has since become a standard practice in neonatal care.
After leaving Columbia University in 1959, Apgar obtained a Master of Public Health degree from Johns Hopkins University. She became actively involved with the March of Dimes research program, focusing on preventing birth defects. Apgar also advocated for rubella vaccination to prevent birth defects caused by the disease. She traveled extensively to raise awareness about birth defects and the need for research in this field.
Awards and Achievements
Throughout her career, Apgar received numerous honors and awards. She was presented with honorary doctorates from the Women’s Medical College of Pennsylvania and Mount Holyoke College. The American Society of Anesthesiologists awarded her the Distinguished Service Award, and she received the Elizabeth Blackwell Award from the American Women’s Medical Association. Apgar also received the Alumni Gold Medal for Distinguished Achievement from Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons.
Personal Life and Legacy
Virginia Apgar never married and did not have any children. In her free time, she enjoyed playing musical instruments, including the violin, viola, and cello. She also had interests in golf, fishing, photography, and gardening. Apgar passed away at the age of 65 on August 7, 1974, due to liver cirrhosis.
Despite facing gender inequality throughout her career, Apgar held a prestigious position in a male-dominated field and earned equal respect. Although she did not actively participate in the women’s movement, she recognized the need for gender equality. Apgar believed that women are liberated from the moment they are born.