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A conversation with Pauline M. Camacho, MD, FACE
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In this issue, Endocrine Today talks with Editorial Board member Pauline M. Camacho, MD, FACE, professor of medicine at Loyola University Chicago’s Stritch School of Medicine, where she is director of the Osteoporosis and Metabolic Bone Disease Center and program director for the Endocrinology Fellowship Program. Camacho received her master’s degree and attended medical school at the University of the Philippines and then completed her residency at Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke’s Medical Center in Chicago. She has served on the board of directors for the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists since 2003 and is currently president-elect of that organization.
What area of research in endocrinology most interests you right now and why?
Dr. Camacho: My main areas of practice and research include osteoporosis and other metabolic bone disorders, such as vitamin D deficiency and primary hyperparathyroidism. I first became interested in metabolic bone diseases during my fellowship. My mentor, Dr. Glen Sizemore, who sparked my interest in these fascinating diseases, left his entire practice to me in 2000 as he retired and I started my practice at Loyola.
What advice would you offer a student in medical school today?
Dr. Camacho: It is hard work to obtain a medical degree, and it is even harder work to practice medicine. However, medicine remains one of the most rewarding careers. Through our clinical practice, we are able to help thousands of people physically and emotionally. Through teaching, we are able to help train future doctors and, hopefully, leave a lasting legacy, and through research, we are able to contribute to science and advance our field.
Pauline M. Camacho
Have you ever been fortunate enough to witness or to have been part of medical history in the making? If so, please explain.
Dr. Camacho: Although it is not necessarily medical history, I was in the middle of my medical school training when the Philippine dictator Ferdinand Marcos was ousted and a woman, Cory Aquino, led the country. That was quite a time in history, and my husband and I always tell our kids about how a peaceful revolution could be possible.
What’s up next for you?
Dr. Camacho: I am excited about my upcoming presidency of AACE. I hope to work with the board to advance clinical endocrinology nationally and internationally. There are many opportunities for growth, and I can’t wait to start working on those.
What are your hobbies/interests outside of practicing medicine?
Dr. Camacho: I am an avid tennis player and play in competitive travel leagues that take me to many areas of Chicago. My husband and kids all play, too, so we enjoy the game as a family. I particularly enjoy playing doubles with my 8-year-old, against my husband and her older sisters! – by Jill Rollet