In Memoriam: Professor Paul David Abel

Paul David Abel 1952 - 2023.

Paul David Abel was born in Kuala Lumpur and moved to London as a child. He was the first in his family to study medicine. During his surgical training he worked across the UK including London, Taunton, Newcastle, and Bristol, before being appointed as a consultant at Ealing Hospital in 1989 and subsequently Imperial College London, where he was awarded the title of Professor of Urology.

One of Paul’s passions was academia, and throughout his career he made research a prominent focus of his overall work. His main research interests included cancer biomarkers, treatment of prostate cancer, and high intensity focused ultrasound, where he was involved in the world's first procedures to treat rectal and cervical cancer. Leading from the front, one of his standout contributions includes principal investigator for the PATCH study, set up through the Medical Research Council clinical trials unit, which has led to a change in practice in the treatment of prostate cancer, to the benefit of countless patients. In addition, he published a wide array of research papers, edited books, and hosted conferences and courses, not only helping to improve on existing knowledge, but sparking an interest in those around him and inspiring many to work with him to achieve common goals.

Teaching and mentoring the next generation of healthcare professionals was another of his main interests. He led the undergraduate training programme in urology at Imperial College and supervised many students to complete higher degrees, including numerous PhDs. His nurturing of the next generation of doctors will long be appreciated. He will be remembered for always trying to get the most out of those he met and being readily available to give advice, whether medical or about life in general.

Paul was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2005, requiring him to gradually step back from clinical work, although he continued to participate actively in academia and teaching for many more years. Outside of medicine, he enjoyed playing badminton, watching rugby, and travelling. He would regularly socialise over a meal and was especially well known for introducing others to his favourite Asian restaurants.

Paul’s family are extremely grateful for all of the kind words and stories shared by his countless friends and colleagues. It is clear that many people hugely admired his mentorship, pursuit of improvement, and high expectations, all delivered with sharp wit, a sense of humour, and encouragement. He has had a positive impact on so many lives, not just his patients, but also his colleagues, friends, and family. He will be greatly missed by his wife, four children, and three grandchildren, as well as his wider family, friends, and colleagues.

Professor of Urology (b 1952; q Liverpool, 1977; FRCS), died from Parkinson’s disease on 13 April 2023.