Basil Hetzel

[[File:Basil_Hetzel.jpg_<!|thumb|Basil_Hetzel.jpg_<!]] Basil Stuart Hetzel (13 June 1922 – 4 February 2017) was an Australian medical researcher and public health advocate. He is best known for his work on iodine deficiency and its effects on health, particularly in relation to cretinism and other developmental disorders.

Early Life and Education

Basil Hetzel was born in Adelaide, South Australia. He attended St Peter's College and later studied medicine at the University of Adelaide, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) in 1944.

Career

After completing his medical degree, Hetzel worked in various hospitals in Australia and the United Kingdom. He later joined the University of Adelaide as a lecturer in medicine. His interest in public health led him to focus on the impact of iodine deficiency on human health.

Research on Iodine Deficiency

Hetzel's groundbreaking research demonstrated that iodine deficiency was a major cause of preventable mental retardation and developmental disorders. His work in Papua New Guinea in the 1960s showed that iodine supplementation could prevent these conditions. This research led to the implementation of iodine supplementation programs in many countries, significantly reducing the incidence of iodine deficiency disorders (IDD).

Public Health Advocacy

Hetzel was a strong advocate for public health measures to combat iodine deficiency. He played a key role in the establishment of the International Council for Control of Iodine Deficiency Disorders (ICCIDD), now known as the Iodine Global Network. His efforts have been credited with improving the health and development of millions of people worldwide.

Awards and Honors

Basil Hetzel received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to medical research and public health, including:

• Companion of the Order of Australia (AC)
• Fellow of the Australian Academy of Science
• Fellow of the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering

Personal Life

Hetzel was married to Mary Hetzel, and they had four children. He passed away on 4 February 2017 at the age of 94.

Legacy

Basil Hetzel's work has had a lasting impact on global health, particularly in the prevention of iodine deficiency disorders. The Basil Hetzel Institute for Translational Health Research in Adelaide is named in his honor, continuing his legacy of medical research and public health advocacy.

See Also

• Iodine deficiency
• Cretinism
• Public health
• University of Adelaide