Medicine Through Time (Flashcards)
What were the key beliefs about the cause of disease in the medieval period?
Based on miasma, the Four Humours (Hippocrates), and punishment from God
How did medieval physicians diagnose and treat illnesses?
Diagnosed using urine charts and zodiac signs; treatments included bloodletting, herbal remedies, and prayer
What was the role of the Church in medieval medicine?
Controlled medical knowledge, promoted Galen’s ideas, and emphasized spiritual healing over scientific approaches
How did public health measures respond to the Black Death (1347-50)?
Quarantines, flagellants, banning of infected goods, and clean streets were attempted to limit the spread
How did the Renaissance change medical understanding?
Renewed interest in dissection (e.g., Vesalius’ anatomical work), questioning of Galen, and improvements in surgical techniques
What were William Harvey’s contributions to medicine?
Discovered blood circulation and proved the heart was a pump
What was the impact of the Great Plague of 1665 on public health?
Increased use of quarantine, killing of stray animals, and restrictions on movement
How did Edward Jenner contribute to the development of vaccines?
Introduced the smallpox vaccine in 1796 using cowpox to provide immunity
What were the effects of germ theory on medicine?
Louis Pasteur’s germ theory (1861) identified microbes as causes of disease, leading to antiseptics and vaccines
How did public health reforms improve conditions in the 19th century?
The Public Health Act (1875) mandated clean water, sewage systems, and waste removal
What impact did Alexander Fleming have on medicine?
Discovered penicillin in 1928, leading to the development of antibiotics
How has technology advanced diagnosis and treatment in the 20th century?
X-rays, blood tests, MRI scans, and minimally invasive surgeries revolutionized care
How did the establishment of the NHS in 1948 transform healthcare in Britain?
Provided free medical care for all, funded by taxation, and improved access to hospitals and GPs
What was the significance of DNA discovery in medicine?
Crick and Watson’s discovery in 1953 paved the way for genetic research, including gene therapy and personalized medicine
