Frazer, Ian Hector (1953-…), a Scottish-born Australian doctor, is known for developing a highly effective vaccine against human papillomavirus (HPV). Several common strains (types) of HPV are known to cause the most common sexually transmitted infections worldwide. Some HPV strains are also associated with cervical cancer, an uncontrolled division of cells in the lower part of a woman’s uterus (womb). Medical experts believe that HPV causes nearly all cervical cancers.
In 1989, Frazer met Chinese virologist Jian Zhou in Cambridge, England. The two scientists realized that they might be able to create a vaccine base for HPV. Frazer invited Zhou to Australia in 1991. Together, they were able to create a self-replicating particle that resembled HPV. Pharmaceutical companies used Frazer and Zhou’s research to develop and mass produce a HPV vaccine. The vaccine triggers a response by the immune system, conferring resistance to the disease. Two forms of the vaccine are marketed under the names Cervarix and Gardasil. The vaccines have been approved for use in Australia, the United States, the European Union, and many other places. Medical experts believe the vaccines are completely effective in preventing cervical cancer caused by certain strains of HPV.
Frazer was born on Jan. 6, 1953, in Glasgow, Scotland. He studied medicine at the University of Edinburgh. In 1981, he moved to Australia, where he received his medical degree from University of Melbourne in 1988. He is currently chief executive officer and director of research at the Translational Research Institute (TRI) in Brisbane. In 2006, Frazer was named the Australian of the Year for his work.
