Dr. Matthew J. Budoff is a world-renowned cardiologist and a leading authority in cardiac imaging and preventive cardiology. He currently serves as Professor of Medicine at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and holds the prestigious Endowed Chair of Preventive Cardiology at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center. As Director of Cardiac Computed Tomography at the Division of Cardiology, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, he has established himself as a pioneering figure in the field of cardiovascular imaging. His academic journey has been marked by significant contributions to medical science, with his work at The Lundquist Institute forming the cornerstone of his influential career in cardiovascular research.
Dr. Budoff has authored or coauthored more than 50 books and book chapters and over 1,000 scientific articles, making substantial contributions to understanding cardiovascular disease progression and prevention. His groundbreaking research has focused on developing early detection methods for cardiac disease through advanced cardiac computed tomography techniques, allowing physicians to identify high-risk patients before cardiac events occur. His work on determining the effects of various therapies on atherosclerosis has been instrumental in establishing whether heart disease can be reversed, fundamentally changing clinical approaches to cardiovascular care. Dr. Budoff has also pioneered the use of supplementary measurements on cardiac CT for thoracic aortic calcification, valve calcification, and other critical cardiac indicators, creating new pathways for early intervention and personalized treatment strategies. His exploration of the interplay between atherosclerosis and osteoporosis through advanced imaging techniques represents a novel approach to understanding systemic disease connections.
Recognized for his exceptional contributions, Dr. Budoff received the Gold Medal Award from the Society of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography and was designated as a Master of the Society (MSCCT), the highest honor bestowed by this professional organization. He was also named Cardiologist of the Year by the American College of Cardiology California chapter, underscoring his impact on both research and clinical practice. His NIH-funded research continues to innovate in the field of cardiovascular prevention, with his philosophy that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure guiding his approach to patient care and research. As a mentor to the next generation of cardiologists and researchers, Dr. Budoff remains at the forefront of developing innovative approaches to prevent heart disease events through his leadership at The Lundquist Institute and UCLA.