1938–2017

Professor Martin Hobdell, who died on the 15 December 2017, was undoubtedly one of the leading pioneers in global health, uniquely embodying its many facets in his professional and personal life. He influenced and inspired generations of dentists across the globe to broaden their understanding of health and oral health by encompassing concerns over human rights, social justice and equity. Over a stellar 40-year professional career, Martin achieved a great deal through his academic advocacy and political work being, unlike many academics, not content with only publishing and lecturing (although he did both brilliantly). His real passion was the practical implementation of new and challenging ideas to reform and improve oral healthcare systems to promote and protect, in particular the oral health of the most vulnerable populations in society.

Martin graduated in dentistry from the London Hospital Medical College (LHMC) in 1961 and obtained his PhD in 1970 from the University of London. Holding senior academic positions at LHMC, Kings College London, University of Mozambique, University of Texas, University of Pennsylvania and UCL, his first chair was as Professor of Community Dental Health at Trinity College Dublin in 1983, subsequently becoming Dean of the Dental School in the University of the Western Cape.

Working extensively in Africa, primarily Mozambique, Tanzania and South Africa, and across Asia including Sri Lanka, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam, Martin also made many visits to Central and South America in various advisory roles. His unique combination of academic standing, policy-making and practical implementation experience meant that he was in great demand from international organisations such as the WHO, the FDI World Dental Federation, the Commonwealth Foundation and numerous others. As a sign of the respect in which he was held, he chaired the drafting of the Global Goals for Oral Health 2020. By nature, Martin was a very gentle, generous and charming person, but his sharp and incisive intellect delighted in challenging vested interests and inappropriate professional behaviour, particularly when colleagues in positions of power abused their authority.

His numerous awards and distinctions included the American Dental Association Honorary Membership, Health Volunteers' Golden Apple Award, the Outstanding Dental Leader Award from the International College of Dentists, and the Commonwealth Dental Association Award; all testimony to his unique contribution to dentistry and global oral health. The international community of alumni and collaborators demonstrate the appreciation for his personal and professional integrity spanning geographical regions, cultures and disciplines.

Martin is greatly missed by all who he inspired and enthused. Our thoughts go out to his wife Helen, his children and his wider family. They cared for Martin in an exemplary way during his last years, where, despite being marked by repeated serious illness and prolonged recoveries, he maintained his never-ceasing optimism and joy of life which was admired by everyone who knew him.