Renowned French scientist and biochemist Etienne-Emile Baulieu, widely recognized for developing the abortion pill RU-486, has passed away at the age of 98. His death was confirmed by his family on Sunday, marking the end of a long and groundbreaking career in medical research.
Baulieu, who spent decades researching hormones and reproductive health, made headlines worldwide in the 1980s for developing mifepristone, the first widely used abortion pill. His work revolutionized reproductive medicine and gave women a non-surgical option for terminating early pregnancies, sparking both global praise and fierce debate.
According to local media in France, Baulieu died peacefully at his home near Paris. Tributes have poured in from scientists, activists, and public health officials, all highlighting his contributions to women’s reproductive rights and medical innovation.
Born in 1926 to a French-Jewish family, Baulieu entered the medical field during a time of rapid change. He trained as a biochemist and later worked with the French National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM), where he made key discoveries in hormone biology and steroid science.
His most groundbreaking achievement came in 1980 with the creation of RU-486 (mifepristone). Approved for use in France in 1988 and later adopted in countries around the world, the pill provided a safer, private, and medically supervised method of abortion in the early stages of pregnancy.
Despite backlash from religious and conservative groups, Baulieu stood by his work. He often emphasized that RU-486 was not about politics but about improving women’s health and freedom. “It’s a medical advance, not a moral statement,” he once said during a press interview.
Throughout his life, Baulieu remained committed to research. He also explored aging, Alzheimer’s disease, and hormone therapy. Even in his later years, he remained active in scientific discussions and regularly attended public health forums.
In recognition of his work, Baulieu received numerous awards, including the Lasker Award for Clinical Medical Research and honorary positions in top universities and medical institutions around the world.
The French government, medical bodies, and human rights groups have expressed condolences, hailing him as a pioneer whose work changed millions of lives.
Etienne-Emile Baulieu is survived by his children and grandchildren. A private memorial service is expected to be held in Paris, with broader tributes planned by France’s scientific community in the coming days.
