History of healthcare aids wellbeing of tomorrow

16 June 2008

The Wellcome Trust has awarded £375 000 to the Glasgow Centre for the Social History of Health and Healthcare - a joint venture between the University of Strathclyde and Glasgow Caledonian University - to support research into areas including occupational health and the control of drugs in society.

The Enhancement Award is the largest ever made for the history of medicine in Scotland. The funding will be used to employ new researchers over the next five years, including PhD and Master's-level studentships, and assist with outreach activities.

Dr James Mills, Director of the Centre and Strathclyde's Vice Dean (Research) for Law, Arts and Social Sciences, said: "Examining the illnesses and diseases of the past can offer vital clues as to how we can tackle similar problems in the future.

"Many of the illnesses we associate with today - binge drinking, obesity and non-prescription drug use - are nothing new. By looking at the policies of the past, we can help inform how we can deal effectively with the same problems now, and just as importantly, which policies should be avoided at all costs.

"The grant will enable us to further our research, examining a range of issues from health welfare and hospital relocation to accidents at work and illegal drug use."

Dr Mark Walport, Director of the Wellcome Trust, said: "Understanding the history of medicine is fundamental to many aspects of current medical debate. Historical perspectives of health are also a fascinating way to bring issues about medicine and science to a wide audience.

"This award will help to increase research capacity and enable the Centre to develop and make the most of new opportunities for international collaboration and public engagement."