Dr. Douglas Rex is a world-renowned gastroenterologist and distinguished leader in the field of colorectal cancer screening and endoscopic procedures. He currently holds the position of Distinguished Professor Emeritus at Indiana University School of Medicine and serves as Chancellor's Professor Emeritus at Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis, maintaining his role as Director of Endoscopy at Indiana University Hospital. Dr. Rex graduated summa cum laude from Harvard College in 1976 before earning his medical degree with highest distinction from Indiana University School of Medicine in 1980. Following his chief medical residency at Indiana University Hospital, he joined the faculty in 1985, establishing himself as a pioneering figure in gastrointestinal endoscopy who has profoundly shaped clinical practice guidelines and colorectal cancer prevention strategies worldwide.
Dr. Rex's groundbreaking research has fundamentally transformed colorectal cancer screening protocols through his seminal work establishing colonoscopy as a safe and effective screening tool for the general population. He conducted the first population-based study inviting approximately 800 doctors and spouses in Indiana for screening colonoscopy, which not only confirmed the procedure's safety but also revealed a high prevalence of precancerous polyps that could be removed to prevent cancer development. His most widely cited tandem colonoscopy study demonstrated that colonoscopy misses a significant percentage of pre-cancerous polyps, catalyzing an international movement to improve colonoscopy quality and performance standards. With over 250 original research papers, 60 book chapters, and 40 guideline papers to his name, Dr. Rex has co-authored the authoritative colorectal cancer screening recommendations for the American College of Gastroenterology and the U.S. Multi-Society Task Force on Colorectal Cancer, where he served as chairman from 2000 to 2006.
Beyond his research contributions, Dr. Rex has held numerous leadership positions including Past President of both the American College of Gastroenterology and the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, where he received the prestigious Rudolf Schindler Award for his exceptional contributions to the field. He possesses the largest clinical experience in endoscopic resection of large colon polyps in the United States and maintains the world's most extensive experience in completing colonoscopies for patients with previous incomplete procedures. Dr. Rex continues to influence the field through his editorial roles with major gastroenterology journals and his service on the medical advisory board of Mainz Biomed N.V. since September 2022. His enduring commitment to advancing colorectal cancer prevention and improving endoscopic techniques ensures his continued impact on clinical practice and patient outcomes in gastrointestinal medicine for years to come.
