Michael Eddleston

Professor Michael Eddleston is a leading researcher focused on addressing the critical issue of pesticide and plant self-poisoning in rural Asia, a significant global health challenge responsible for over 200,000 premature deaths annually and a major method of suicide. His work primarily aims to mitigate these fatalities through a multifaceted approach involving clinical trials, public health interventions, and international collaborations.

 

Professor Eddleston conducts rigorous clinical trials in South Asian district hospitals to advance the understanding of antidote pharmacology and efficacy. Complementing these efforts, he spearheads community-based controlled trials to identify and implement effective public health strategies. His research is further supported by large animal translational studies of antidotes in Edinburgh, as well as collaborative work with sociologists and anthropologists to gain deeper insights into the socio-cultural dimensions of self-harm.

 

In addition to his fieldwork, Professor Eddleston engages with global health organizations, including the World Health Organisation and the Food & Agriculture Organisation, to facilitate the practical implementation of his research findings. His commitment to improving treatment for various forms of poisoning extends to clinical and pre-clinical research in Edinburgh, where he focuses on the development and testing of novel antidotes for poisoning from substances such as cyanide, alcohol, and contrast media. Through these comprehensive efforts, Professor Eddleston is making significant strides in reducing mortality and enhancing treatment for poisoning worldwide.