The world of medical science has lost one of its most influential figures with the passing of Dr Drummond Rennie at age 88. Born in Epsom, Surrey, and raised in Scotland, Rennie's remarkable career spanned continents and transformed how medical research is published and scrutinised.
From Scottish Roots to Medical Revolutionary
Rennie's journey began with medical training at Cambridge University and University College Hospital, London. His early career saw him practising medicine across Britain before a fateful move to the United States in 1977 would change the course of scientific publishing forever.
The JAMA Revolution
As deputy editor of the Journal of the American Medical Association for nearly 25 years, Rennie became the conscience of medical journalism. He championed rigorous peer review, transparency, and ethical standards that would become benchmarks for the entire industry.
His most significant contributions included:
- Establishing the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors
- Creating uniform requirements for manuscript submission
- Pioneering conflict-of-interest disclosures for researchers
- Advocating for clinical trial registration
A Fearless Advocate for Scientific Integrity
Rennie was renowned for his uncompromising commitment to truth. He fearlessly exposed fraudulent research and challenged powerful pharmaceutical companies, earning both admiration and controversy within the medical community.
His legendary Friday meetings at JAMA became incubators for innovation in scientific publishing, where he mentored generations of medical editors and researchers.
Enduring Legacy in Medical Publishing
Beyond JAMA, Rennie's influence extended to prestigious publications including The Lancet and BMJ, where his insights helped shape modern editorial standards. His work ensured that millions of patients worldwide could trust the medical evidence guiding their treatment.
Even in retirement, Rennie remained an active voice, continuing to advocate for scientific integrity and mentoring the next generation of medical journalists until his final days in Friday Harbor, Washington.
Dr Drummond Rennie's legacy lives on every time a medical journal publishes transparent, rigorously reviewed research that advances human health worldwide.
