About
Jane Hightower, MD is an internal medicine physician in San Francisco with special expertise in nutrition, preventive medicine, and the health effects of environmental contaminants. She trained at the University of Illinois College of Medicine and completed her internal medicine residency at St. Mary's Medical Center. She held board certification from the American Board of Internal Medicine from 1992 through 2022 and holds current board certification from the National Board of Physician and Surgeons.
In 2000, Dr. Hightower conducted a landmark study on mercury levels in patients at her San Francisco practice. She published her findings in Environmental Health Perspectives in 2002, and her work directly influenced current FDA recommendations on fish consumption. She has published multiple scientific papers on mercury and health, delivered numerous lectures worldwide, and earned recognition as a leading authority on mercury as it relates to human health. She is also the author of Diagnosis Mercury: Money Politics and Poison.
Education & Training
Medical School
University of Illinois College of Medicine
Residency
Internal Medicine, St. Mary's Medical Center
Certifications
Conditions Treated
Who is Dr. Hightower right for?
Dr. Hightower is a strong fit for adults who want a physician with deep expertise in preventive medicine and nutrition. Patients concerned about environmental exposures, including mercury from fish consumption, benefit from her specialized knowledge. She works well with patients who want evidence-based guidance on diet and long-term health risks. Her background suits adults seeking a primary care doctor who engages seriously with environmental and lifestyle factors.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Dr. Hightower specializes in internal medicine, preventive medicine, nutrition, and the health effects of environmental contaminants. She is particularly recognized for her expertise on mercury exposure and human health. Her work in this area directly informed current FDA recommendations on fish consumption.
Yes, Dr. Hightower holds current board certification from the National Board of Physician and Surgeons. She previously held certification from the American Board of Internal Medicine from 1992 through 2022.
Dr. Hightower earned her medical degree from the University of Illinois College of Medicine. She then completed her internal medicine residency at St. Mary's Medical Center.
Yes, Dr. Hightower has published multiple scientific papers on mercury and health. Her landmark 2000 study on mercury levels in San Francisco patients appeared in Environmental Health Perspectives in 2002. She also authored the book Diagnosis Mercury: Money Politics and Poison and has lectured on the topic worldwide.
Dr. Hightower sees adult patients seeking primary care with a preventive and nutritional focus. She is especially well-suited for patients with concerns about environmental exposures or those wanting detailed guidance on diet and long-term wellness.
Yes, Dr. Hightower offers video visits as part of the Discover Health membership. Members can also access same-day and next-day appointments and reach their medical team around the clock.
Doctor profile last updated March 21, 2026