Steve Stiles, center, receiving the Howard L Lewis Achievement Award from M Cass Wheeler, left, and David Josserand, right.

Stiles, of Fremont, CA, was honored for "his enterprising, in-depth reporting that explores important scientific, clinical, economic, political, ethical, and cultural implications of cardiovascular medicine, providing invaluable insightfulness in the fight against heart disease," according to the award citation.

"Everyone at theheart.org is thrilled at this recognition of Steve's coverage of cardiovascular medicine over several decades, including his writing for us over the past five years," said Larry Husten, editor of heartwire. "This award is well-deserved."

David Josserand, the American Heart Association's board chair, and M Cass Wheeler, CEO, presented Stiles with a citation and a $2000 honorarium at a media reception during the American Heart Association 2008 Scientific Sessions.

Named for the late, longtime director of the association's science media office, the award recognizes outstanding reporting about heart disease and stroke. A panel of national news professionals selects the winner.

"For more than 20 years, Steve Stiles has covered an extremely broad range of topics within the large field of cardiovascular medicine," Josserand said during the presentation. "He undertakes each assignment and project with a remarkable attention to detail and subtlety."

As a freelance correspondent and staff writer, Stiles has reported on heart-related topics for numerous national and international medical news organizations and publications. Since 2004, he has been a reporter for theheart.org.

Stiles has a master's degree in medical communications from Boston University.