Charles Warlow stands as a preeminent figure in the field of medical neurology with particular expertise in stroke research and management. He served as Professor of Medical Neurology at the University of Edinburgh from 1987 until his retirement in 2008, following distinguished academic appointments at the University of Aberdeen and the University of Oxford. Having qualified in Medicine from Cambridge University in 1968, Professor Warlow established himself as a leading clinical neurologist through progressive academic roles that culminated in his Edinburgh professorship. His foundational work began with lectureship positions in Aberdeen before advancing to clinical neurology roles at Oxford, where he developed his specialized expertise in cerebrovascular disorders.
Professor Warlow's scholarly contributions have profoundly shaped contemporary understanding and treatment of stroke, with over 500 scientific publications and several authoritative texts to his name, most notably as senior author of 'Stroke, a Practical Guide to Management'. His research has provided critical insights into stroke mechanisms, prevention strategies, and therapeutic interventions that have directly influenced clinical practice guidelines worldwide. The establishment of the Stroke Research Group at the University of Edinburgh in 1987 created a dedicated center for stroke investigation that has produced numerous landmark studies over three decades. His work has been instrumental in advancing the conceptualization of stroke as a 'brain attack,' emphasizing the urgency of timely intervention equivalent to that for heart attacks.
Beyond his direct research contributions, Professor Warlow has exercised significant influence through leadership roles including Past President of the Association of British Neurologists and former Editor of Practical Neurology, where he shaped discourse in the neurological community. His service as ombudsman for The Lancet demonstrated his commitment to research integrity and scientific discourse in high-impact medical publishing. The enduring impact of his work continues through the ongoing activities of the Stroke Research Group he founded, which remains a vital center for stroke investigation and clinical translation. Even in his emeritus capacity, Professor Warlow remains engaged with the neurological community through expert commentary and contributions to public understanding of stroke prevention and treatment.
