Edward Bright Vedder

Edward Bright Vedder (1878–1952) was an American physician and pathologist known for his pioneering work in tropical medicine and beriberi. He was a major in the United States Army Medical Corps and was instrumental in the development of the field of nutritional science.

Early life and education[edit | edit source]

Edward Bright Vedder was born on February 2, 1878, in Albany, New York. He attended the Albany High School before enrolling at the Union College, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1898. He then pursued his medical studies at the Albany Medical College, earning his Doctor of Medicine degree in 1902.

Career[edit | edit source]

After completing his medical degree, Vedder joined the United States Army Medical Corps in 1902. He was initially posted in the Philippines, where he conducted extensive research on tropical diseases, particularly beriberi. His work led to the discovery of the role of thiamine (vitamin B1) in preventing beriberi, a breakthrough in the field of nutritional science.

Vedder also made significant contributions to the understanding and treatment of dysentery, malaria, and leprosy. He authored several books on tropical medicine, including "Beriberi" in 1913 and "Syphilis and the Army" in 1918.

In 1923, Vedder became the head of the Department of Experimental Medicine at the George Washington University. He held this position until his retirement in 1948.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

Edward Bright Vedder's work has had a lasting impact on the field of tropical medicine and nutritional science. His research on beriberi and the role of thiamine has saved countless lives and continues to inform current medical practices.