E. Dale Abel, MD, PhD Awarded Jamaica’s Order of Distinction, Commander Class
The UCLA Department of Medicine is proud to announce that E. Dale Abel, MD, PhD, chair and executive medical director of the Department of Medicine at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, has been awarded the Order of Distinction in the Rank of Commander (CD) by the Government of Jamaica, one of the nation's highest honors. Dr. Abel was recognized for his outstanding contributions to medicine, specifically in the field of endocrinology.
“Throughout its history, following independence from the United Kingdom, the Government of Jamaica has chosen to honor a small number of its citizens each year, with National Honours. Growing up each year, we would look at the newspaper on Independence Day to see the list of Jamaican luminaries whose contributions to our country and the world would be recognized in this way. These included some familiar names in arts and sports such as Usain Bolt and Rita Marley. Thus, when I woke up on August 6th to receive numerous text messages of congratulations, I was initially unsure what was happening, until I looked at the online version of the local paper and saw the article. I dedicate this honor to my mother and extended family, for their unflagging support and principles that they instilled in us as we were growing up. I am also pleased to share that my older brother (Colin) was on the list, as he received a Badge of Honour for meritorious service, for his contributions to medicine and surgery in the region. So, my mom was doubly proud!”
The award was announced as part of Jamaica's 2026 National Honours and Awards and will be formally conferred in October during National Heroes Day celebrations. Dr. Abel is among a distinguished group of Jamaicans at home and abroad whose achievements have made a significant impact across medicine, education, public service, business, culture, and community development
Dr. Abel has built a distinguished career as a leader in endocrine and metabolic research. His laboratory has made important contributions to the mechanisms that increase the risk of heart failure in individuals with diabetes and obesity and in elucidating metabolic and mitochondrial mechanisms that are responsible for the cardiovascular complications of diabetes. An internationally recognized physician-scientist, academic leader and mentor, Dr. Abel has made lasting contributions through his groundbreaking research, mentorship of future physicians and physician-scientists, and commitment to advancing patient care.
This prestigious honor celebrates not only Dr. Abel's scientific and clinical accomplishments, but also his enduring contributions to health and medicine that have benefited communities in Jamaica and around the world.
Please join us in congratulating Dr. Abel on this well-deserved recognition.
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