Basil Hetzel is a recipient of the 2007 Prince Mahidol Award for his pioneering work on IDD

The Prince Mahidol Foundation was set up in 1992 to honor the centenary of the Prince Mahidol, the father of King Bhumibol who was a doctor by training and is credited for helping to introduce modern medicine to Thailand. The Prince Mahidol Award has been granted to 47 medical innovators since 1992. They are conferred annually upon individuals or institutions which have demonstrated outstanding and exemplary contributions to the advancement of medical and public health services for humanity throughout the world. Each award consists of a medal, a certificate, and the sum of US$50,000.The three winners of the 2007 awards were picked from among 69 nominees from 35 different countries. The 2007 award was conferred on Professor Axel Ullrich, Director of Molecular Biology at the Max Planck Institute in Germany for the field of medicine, Professor Basil Hetzel, Chairman Emeritus of the ICCIDD, Australia for the field of public heath and Dr Sanduk Ruit, Medical Director of Tilganga Eye Centre, Nepal for the field of public health.

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Prof. Hetzel extensively studied the adverse effects of iodine deficiency upon human health, particularly on the development of the human brain. He showed that severe iodine deficiency can lead to maternal and fetal hypothyroidism, which causes endemic cretinism and mental retardation. His research clearly demonstrated that these disorders can be prevented by providing iodine to women during the reproductive period. Prof. Hetzel coined the term ‘Iodine Deficiency Disorders’, and was one of the founders and is Chairman Emeritus of the ICCIDD. Prof. Hetzel's extensive work against iodine deficiency have made a significant contribution to the proper development of human populations around the world, including Thailand. As quoted in the Thai press, Prof. Hetzel said it was a great honor to receive the award because the award has been conferred on a person who worked for others in the field of public health. He said seeing patients recover and lead a normal life was the inspiration for him to conduct his work and research.