c1900-present: Ideas about the cause of disease and illness

Question 1

Change in diagnosis

Answer 1

Scientists looked at samples collected from the patient to diagnose the disease (microbes are studied), rather than referring to miasmata, the Theory of Four Humours or supernatural causes.

Question 2

Advances - Genetics

Answer 2

Scientists understood that not all disease were caused by microbes.
By 1953, it was known that DNA carried genes inherited from each parent and was arranged in a double helix shape.
Impact - helped scientists diagnose, BUT NOT TREAT, hereditary diseases.

Question 3

Advances - Lifestyle and health

Answer 3

Smoking - increase in lung cancer, blood pressure
Diet - eat more fresh fruits and vegetable, less sugar and fats
Alcohol - liver and kidney diseases
Sharing bodily fluids - unprotected sex, etc. causes disease

Question 4

Impact of technology on diagnosis

Answer 4

X-rays and CT scans are used for diagnosis.

Better/accurate diagnosis means doctors can treat patients better.

Question 5

Watson, Crick

Answer 5

Developed double helix structure of DNA by looking at x-rays taken by Franklin and Wilkins.
Published their findings in April 1923, saying they had discovered the secret of life.