William Frankland (allergist)

British allergist and immunologist

William Frankland (19 March 1912 – 2 April 2020) was a pioneering British allergist and immunologist known for his significant contributions to the field of allergy research. Often referred to as the "Grandfather of Allergy," Frankland's work spanned over eight decades, during which he made groundbreaking advancements in understanding and treating allergic conditions.

Early Life and Education

William Frankland was born in Battle, East Sussex, England. He attended St Bees School in Cumbria before pursuing medical studies at The Queen's College, Oxford, and later at St Mary's Hospital Medical School in London. His early interest in medicine was influenced by his father, who was a general practitioner.

Career

World War II

During World War II, Frankland served as a medical officer in the Royal Army Medical Corps. He was stationed in Singapore and was taken as a prisoner of war by the Japanese after the fall of Singapore in 1942. He spent three and a half years in captivity, an experience that profoundly impacted his life and career.

Post-War Career

After the war, Frankland returned to London and joined the allergy department at St Mary's Hospital, where he worked under the renowned allergist Sir Alexander Fleming. It was here that Frankland began his pioneering work in allergy research.

Dr Bill Frankland

Contributions to Allergy Research

Frankland is best known for his work on pollen allergies and the development of the pollen count, a tool that has become essential for allergy sufferers worldwide. He was instrumental in popularizing the concept of the pollen count, which helps individuals understand the severity of pollen levels in the air and manage their symptoms accordingly.

Frankland also conducted extensive research on anaphylaxis and was a strong advocate for the use of desensitization therapy, which involves gradually increasing exposure to allergens to build tolerance.

Later Work and Legacy

In his later years, Frankland continued to contribute to the field of allergy and immunology through research, lectures, and publications. He remained active in the medical community well into his 100s, sharing his vast knowledge and experience with younger generations of medical professionals.

Personal Life

Frankland married Pauline Jackson in 1940, and the couple had four children. He lived to the age of 108, passing away in April 2020. His longevity and continued engagement with his field made him a respected and beloved figure in the medical community.

Related Pages

• Allergy
• Immunology
• Pollen count
• Anaphylaxis