ROME (AP) — French scientist Etienne-Emile Baulieu, best known as the inventor of the abortion pill, died on Friday aged 98 at his home in Paris, his institute said in a statement.

Both a doctor and a researcher, Baulieu was known around the world for the scientific, medical and social significance of his work on steroid hormones.

“His research was guided by his attachment to the progress made possible by science, his commitment to women’s freedom, and his desire to enable everyone to live better, longer lives,” the Institut Baulieu said in the statement posted on its website.

Born Etienne Blum in Strasbourg on Dec. 12, 1926, he took the name “Émile Baulieu” when he joined the French Resistance against the Nazi occupation at the age of 15.

An endocrinologist with a doctorate in medicin

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