ROMANCE OF MEDICINE
Romance of Medicine
BMU-MDS 101 History of Medicine
Introduction
Medicine is as old as humanity.
The Bible records – Abraham performing circumcision.
Injuries and diseases are as old as humanity.
Evidence from Stone Age human remains shows:
Arthritis
Tuberculosis (TB)
Leprosy
Dental problems
Sinusitis
Congenital abnormalities
Humans have always sought to prevent and reduce pain and suffering, indicating that various medical interventions must have existed throughout history.
Beliefs of Stone Age Humans
Stone Age man lacked knowledge of disease causes (e.g., viruses, bacteria) and anatomy/physiology.
Diseases were attributed to supernatural forces, influencing their understanding of health.
Priests and medicine men played key roles in disease treatment:
They performed rituals and rites to protect health and lives.
Definitions & Classifications
Medicine:
The practice concerned with:
Maintenance of health
Prevention, alleviation, or cure of disease
The WHO's Alma-Ata Health Declaration (1978) set a framework for governments to provide healthcare for their populations.
Health Definition
Health is defined as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being.
It goes beyond merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
Attainment of high health levels is a fundamental human right and a crucial global social goal, necessitating action across various sectors beyond health.
Fields of Medicine
Medicine Specialties:
Cardiology
Nephrology
Endocrinology
Dermatology
Neurology
Pulmonology
Surgery:
General Surgery
Burns & Plastic Surgery
Cardiothoracic Surgery
Paediatric Surgery
Orthopaedics
Urology
Neuro Surgery
Paediatrics:
Neonatology
Nephrology
Additional Fields:
Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Anaesthesiology
Radiology
Otorhinolaryngology
Pathology
Community Medicine
Psychiatry