medicine

"[Examines]...scientific advances that took medicine from the realm of magic to the cutting edge of technological development. Chapters on the major branches of medicine--the specialties that have come to define modern medical practice and health care--offer insight into the diagnosis, treatment, and management of disease"--Page 12.

Explores some of the greatest figures and movements in science and technology.

The man we call Averroes was one of the great thinkers of the Muslim world during the Middle Ages. An accomplished physician and judge, Averroes is most renowned for writing comprehensive commentaries on Aristotle, ranging from short paraphrases of the great Greek philosopher’s words to lengthy, line-by-line analyses approachable by only the most learned scholars. In time, Averroes’s commentaries introduced Europe, which had been plunged into the Dark Ages, to the breadth of Greek philosophy. As one of the greatest interpreters of Aristotle, Averroes and his work forged a crucial link between ancient and modern thought.

Antibiotics, the potent medicines that fight bacterial infections, can save lives. We take these miracle substances for granted, but they've truly transformed medicine as this accessible guide relates. The major discoveries of bacteria destroyers, including penicillin, are highlighted as well as their impact. Each impressive chapter explains the most important aspects of antibiotics, including their variety, how they're given, their side effects, and their limitations. Also addressed, ripped from the headlines, is the current controversy surrounding vaccines. Information about antibiotic resistance, misuse, superbugs, and the future of antibiotics will make readers feel like medical professionals!.

Presents the biographies of 100 individuals responsible for everything from vaccinations to gene therapy. Organized chronologically, the format allows readers to understand how each pioneer built on the work of his or her peers and predecessors and how concepts relate to each other. Readers will also learn about the intersection of social and medical history through the stories of women who broke into the traditionally male-dominated medical field.

"Exposes 12 of the most enduring myths about medicine. Full-color spreads give readers essential information about each myth, including why it exists, the key players who proved it wrong, and what the truth really is."--.

Explores the science and fundamental questions surrounding medical discoveries.

Some vaccines may be controversial today, but undoubtedly they have saved millions of lives since their introduction. Mass inoculations began with the polio vaccine in 1952 and since then have become a part of modern life. This important volume makes vaccine technology understandable, describing the different types, how they're administered, and their side effects and limitations. Readers will feel well-informed as they come to comprehend key topics such as herd immunity, the anti-vaccination movement, and new developments in vaccine technology, including the diseases they may treat in the future and how they're delivered.

Gene therapy is a perennial hot-button issue in today's news cycle. This relatively new and experimental field involves inserting genetically altered genes into cells to replace defective genes. It can treat genetic disorders or provide a specialized disease-fighting function. The multifaceted topics surrounding gene therapy DNA, techniques, challenges, and risks are presented in this clear, understandable text, so that readers can grasp the ramifications and ethical concerns of this incredible technology. While gene therapy is currently only being tested for the treatment of diseases that have no cures, genetic engineering for many ailments and conditions is a very real possibility of the near future.

Explores the development and history of medicine through fifty essential objects from early prehistory to the present. Discusses tools and technology, symbols of social movements, prescriptions and vaccines, and surgical innovations. Includes photos, illustrations, and an index.