Pelayo Correa, distinguished pathologist-epidemiologist, visionary cancer researcher, and magnanimous teacher, is one of the most influential figures in modern cancer epidemiology and gastrointestinal pathology. Over a career spanning more than five decades, he transformed global understanding of gastric carcinogenesis, pioneered population-based cancer surveillance in Latin America, and helped shape epidemiology as an integrative, etiology-driven science. Dr. Correa was the founding editor-in-chief of Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers Abraham Lilienfeld; and Brian MacMahon. As a collaborative “etiologist,” he worked across disciplines to understand why diseases occur. Although Dr. Correa celebrated epidemiology’s achievements, he also warned against its fragmentation into overly mathematical or political branches. He viewed etiologic research as inherently team-based, valuing the contributions of individuals from different disciplines. He urged the field to remain etiology-driven and practical, advising future researchers to follow their curiosity while upholding rigor and independent thinking. Until his last days, he maintained a keen interest in the societal and historical determinants of health, always seeking to understand the root causes of disease.Despite the numerous recognitions and distinctions earned throughout his career, Dr. Correa remained modest and unassuming. He was known for his warmth, selfless nature, work ethic, and rigorous inquiry. Dr. Correa described himself as a workaholic. Nevertheless, his greatest joy remained his family. He enjoyed listening to tango music and singing along with it. Those left to cherish Dr. Correa’s memory are his daughter, sons, daughters-in-law, son-in-law, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.Dr. Correa’s contributions have indelibly shaped cancer epidemiology, pathology, and global cancer control. Through foundational concepts, pioneering population-based cancer registries, and decades of etiologic research, he transformed the understanding of gastric cancer and inspired generations of scientists worldwide.His legacy endures in the multitude of students and colleagues he mentored and the scientific advances rooted in his curiosity and unwavering commitment to understanding the causes of cancer.This obituary is partially based on Dr. Correa’s own words during an interview with Dr. Elizabeth Fontham (6). Along with her, we are a group of female scientists who received invaluable mentorship, support, and guidance from Dr. Correa at different stages of our careers. It is remarkable to note that when many scientific fields have been characterized by male-dominated cultures, Dr. Correa actively welcomed many female mentees and collaborators. He will be profoundly missed by us and all those who had the privilege of knowing and working with him.
Camargo et al. (Mon,) studied this question.