John G. Pappas, MD - New York

My curiosity about science was heightened by a high school biology class, during which I wondered at the complex phenomena such simple elements—carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen—can create. Then the genetic code was discovered, and it seemed we suddenly had so many answers at our fingertips. When I studied genetics in closer detail, however, I found more questions than answers. My interest in incurable diseases, especially those brought about by genes associated with unfavorable traits, grew during the years I studied in my home country, Greece, at the University of Athens. There, I discovered my passion: medical genetics. There was no specific program in Greece where I could further my training, so I moved to the United States and pursued pediatrics and genetics. Helping families struggling with genetic conditions has become my priority. In my practice, I evaluate prenatal genetic abnormalities and offer prenatal counseling. I also evaluate children and adults with possible genetic disorders, including predisposition to cancer. I’m specifically interested in