Professor Blinkhorn has been the Principal Investigator in many large-scale epidemiological studies, including large dentifrice and water fluoridation studies. The results of these studies have made an important contribution to public health and to the evidence base to support the use of fluoridated toothpaste and water fluoridation in the control of dental caries. He has also engaged in many high-profile oral health promotion projects and is regarded as one of the world experts in this field. His contribution to public health is clearly recognized by his appointment to many prestigious bodies, both in the UK and internationally, and also by the fact that he is regularly deployed as a consultant and advisor for many government agencies.
One of Professor Blinkhorn's major strengths is his outstanding ability to perform as a team player, and he has been responsible for the recruitment, training, and promotion of numerous colleagues who have gone on to become leaders in the field of epidemiology and public health worldwide. It is now well-recognized that Professor Blinkhorn and his team in Manchester are among the leaders in Europe in Oral Health Services Research, and their record in obtaining substantial research funding is a clear indication of this recognition.
Professor Blinkhorn is a gifted teacher and an elegant communicator. He is frequently asked to respond to public health issues in the public press, radio, and television. His record as an advocate of public health strategies is impressive.
Professor Blinkhorn and his team contribute regularly to the Annual Scientific Meetings of the British Society for Dental Research and of IADR, as well as to those of many other international specialist societies. He was the founding president of the IADR's Oral Health Research Group, Chair of the IADR's Behavioral Sciences & Health Services Research Group, and Chair of the Young Investigator Award (2000-2004). Currently, he is General Secretary, Institute of Health Promotion and Education. Professor Blinkhorn has an outstanding publication record dating back to the early 1970's. He is editor of the Health Education Journal, formerly editor of the International Journal of Health Promotion and of Education and a member of the editorial board, British Dental Journal.
In the recent Queen's Birthday Honours List for 2005 in the UK, Professor Blinkhorn was awarded the OBE for his contribution to the promotion of Special Care Dentistry.
This prestigious award is presented annually by the IADR and is supported by the Colgate-Palmolive Company and a bequest from the estate of Frank J. McClure in memory of H. Trendley Dean, the 21st President of the IADR and first dental officer of the National Institutes of Health. The award, which consists of a cash prize and a plaque, is conferred for distinguished accomplishments in research and development in the fields of behavioral science, epidemiology, and public health.
Dr. Blinkhorn receives his award today during the Opening Ceremonies of the IADR's 84th General Session.