Skip to main page content
U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government

Dot gov

The .gov means it’s official.
Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you’re on a federal government site.

Https

The site is secure.
The https:// ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.

Access keys NCBI Homepage MyNCBI Homepage Main Content Main Navigation
Review
. 2024 Aug 23;16(8):e67602.
doi: 10.7759/cureus.67602. eCollection 2024 Aug.

John Snow: The Pioneer of Modern Epidemiology and Anesthesia

Christos S Avdulla  1 , Ntaniela Tachirai  2
Affiliations
Review

John Snow: The Pioneer of Modern Epidemiology and Anesthesia

Christos S Avdulla et al. Cureus. .

Abstract

John Snow (15 March 1813-16 June 1858) stands as a seminal figure in the fields of epidemiology and anesthesia. His groundbreaking work in tracing the source of cholera outbreaks and advancing the practice of anesthesia has left an indelible mark on modern medicine. Born in York, England, Snow's early passion for science and dedication to medical practice led him to become a pioneering force in his field. His meticulous methods, including the innovative use of spatial analysis and statistical mapping, challenged prevailing theories and laid the groundwork for modern public health initiatives. Snow's contributions to anesthesia, particularly his work with ether and chloroform, revolutionized surgical practices, significantly improving patient care and safety. This article delves into Snow's life, achievements, and the innovative processes he employed, underscoring his enduring impact on human health. By examining his legacy, we aim to enhance our understanding of medical history and inspire both present and future healthcare professionals, honoring the legacy of this medical hero.

Keywords: anesthesia; cholera; epidemiology; historical vignette; john snow; public health.

PubMed Disclaimer

Conflict of interest statement

Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1. John Snow
Source: Library, Archive & Open Research Services blog [2]
Figure 2
Figure 2. Snow’s cholera map
Source: Library, Archive & Open Research Services blog [2]
See this image and copyright information in PMC

Similar articles

See all similar articles

References

    1. Vinten-Johansen P, Brody H, Paneth N, Rachman S, Rip M. New York: Oxford University Press; 2003. Cholera, chloroform, and the science of medicine : a life of John Snow.
    1. Happy 205th Birthday to John Snow. [ Jun; 2024 ]. 2018. https://blogs.lshtm.ac.uk/library/2018/03/15/happy-205th-birthday-to-joh... https://blogs.lshtm.ac.uk/library/2018/03/15/happy-205th-birthday-to-joh...
    1. John Snow, M.D., a representative of medical science and art of the Victorian era. RI BW. Br J Anaesth. 1952;24:267–291. - PubMed
    1. John Snow, MD: anaesthetist to the Queen of England and pioneer epidemiologist. Ramsay MA. Proc (Bayl Univ Med Cent) 2006;19:24–28. - PMC - PubMed
    1. Encyclopædia Britannica. John Snow. [ Jun; 2024 ]. 2024. https://www.britannica.com/biography/John-Snow-British-physician https://www.britannica.com/biography/John-Snow-British-physician

LinkOut - more resources