Honorary President

Sir John CROFTON 1912 - 2009. Emeritus Professor of Respiratory Diseases and Tuberculosis, University of Edinburgh Sir John Crofton was knighted in 1977 for his contributions to TB control. As Professor of tuberculosis and respiratory disease in Edinburgh (where TB was the leading cause of death in young people) in the 1950’s, Sir John led the team responsible for bringing TB under control in only 6 years – 1/3 of the time predicted. This was the first demonstration of mass control of TB, and his no-nonsense “Edinburgh method” was subsequently instituted in 23 European countries. An indefatigable pioneer and international physician, Sir John has been a leader in the work of the World Health Organisation (WHO) and other international bodies, a celebrated author and an influential teacher. The International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease (IUATLD) awarded Sir John the organisation’s highest award, The Union Medal, which recognises outstanding contributions to the control of tuberculosis and lung disease, on October 19th 2005. Never one to slow down, to the end of his life at the ripe age of 97 Sir John continued as an inspiring worker in the field of tuberculosis and tobacco control, and fundraising tirelessly on behalf of TB Alert. He will be sadly missed.

Patrons

Lord (Robert) KILPATRICK OF KINCRAIG
Doctor and Past President of the General Medical Council, who had TB when young and was one of the first patients to be treated with the drug Streptomycin.

Archbishop Emeritus Desmond TUTU
Archbishop Tutu had TB as a child and as a human rights activist believes that access to TB treatment and cure for all is a fundamental human right.