A history of epidemics wins BMA book award

20 Sep 2013 14:27:36.057

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A book charting the history of epidemics across the 20th century has been named as the BMA’s medical book of the year.

‘Atlas of Epidemic Britain: A twentieth Century Picture’, written by Matthew Smallman-Raynor from the School of Geography at The University of Nottingham together with Andrew Cliff, a professor of theoretical geography at Cambridge University, is described by the BMA as a joy to use.

Vivienne Nathanson, BMA director of professional activities, said: “This is a wonderful book which presents complex information clearly and visually.”

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The book details the history of epidemics such as bird flu and HIV. Its examination of epidemics that have occurred in Britain includes over 300 new maps, charts and photographs which offer a unique analysis and insight into the ebb and flow of infection.

Encouragement for researchers

Professor Smallman-Raynor said: “It is beyond our wildest expectations. It is especially encouraging to researchers that the BMA is a broad church in the books it considers for these awards.”

The award was presented by Professor Steve Field CBE, FRCP, FFPH, FRCGP Deputy National Medical Director of Health Inequalities NHS England, Chairman of the National Inclusion Health Board and GP at the Bellevue Medical Centre, Birmingham.

Strong competition

The book was among 641 entered to the BMA Medical Book Awards this year. Prizes were awarded as well as special awards for best illustrated book, best student textbook, best book by young authors and for a book which popularises science.

123 resources were entered to the BMA Patient Information Awards from 72 patient groups and trusts this year and nine of them received the prize from our panel.

Professor Smallman-Raynor specialises in spatial dynamics of infectious diseases and the historical geography of war epidemics. In collaboration with Professor Cliff he is currently studying the spread of disease in refugee camps.