Dr. Carmencita D. Padilla is recognized for her significant contributions to medicine, especially in the field of genetics, specifically, newborn screening for genetic disorders in the Philippines. Under her leadership, studies were conducted on prevalence and cost benefits analysis of a national program for newborn screening to prevent mental retardation and death from certain congenital disorders detectable at birth which provided the basis for the enactment of RA9288 or the Newborn Screening Act of 2004. Other important researches she has undertaken with students and co-workers include: identification of mutations causing the maple syrup urine disease (MSUD) among Filipinos and development of early detection analytical techniques; development and implementation of a Birth Defects Registry started in 1999 which aimed at identifying preventable causes and establishing programs for early identification and better quality of life for affected Filipino patients; and molecular epidemiological study to assess association between genetic polymorphism and cancer risk. Dr. Padilla helped craft the newborn screening bill and pushed for its enactment into law.
Educational Background:
- Masters in Health Policy Studies - University of the Philippines Manila - 2005
- Fellowship in Clinical Genetics - Royal Alexandra Hospital for Children - 1990
- Exchange Research Fellow - Kobe University School of Medicine - 1987
- Pediatric Residency Training - Department of Pediatrics College of Medicine – 1986
- Rural Health Practice - San Fabian Rural Health Unit - 1982
- Rotating Internship - University of the Philippines (Philippine General Hospital) - 1982
- B.S. Medicine - University of the Philippines - 1981
- B.S. Pre-Medicine - University of the Philippines - 1976
Research Interest:
- Pediatrics
- Genetics
- Inborn Errors of Metabolism
Most important studies done:
- Newborn Screening in the Philippines
- Maple Syrup Urine Disease (MSUD)
- Newborn Screening in the Asia Pacific region
- Birth Defect
- Cancer Genetic Projects
Honor and Awards:
- 2007 - The Outstanding Filipino Physician - JCI Senate of the Philippines and Department of Health
- 2006 - UP Scientist II - University of the Philippines
- 2005 - Outstanding Researcher - University of the Philippines Manila
- 2005 - Special Recognition Awardee for Research - University of the Philippines Manila
- 2004 - Lignkod Bayan Award, given by the Civil Service Commission, Philippines
- 2004 - Finalist, Heroes for Health - Department of Health and Pfizer
- 2004 - International Publication Award - University of the Philippines
- 2001 - UP Manila Gem for Outstanding Work in Newborn Screening - University of Newborn
- 2001 - A Guide for Physicians - National Academy of Science and Technology
- 2000 - Outstanding Health Research Award - Philippine Council for Health and Research Development
- 2008 - Academician - National Academy of Science and Technology