Technological Advances and Limitations after 1900: Disease for AP World History

Feb 17

12 min read

Diseases have shaped the world for all of human history. New technologies brought new ways to fight disease after 1900. Unfortunately, disease still affects humanity today from diseases of poverty to diseases associated with increased longevity. Read the Google Slides to learn about technological advances and limitations after 1900: disease.

Illustrative Examples

Malaria

Tuberculosis

Cholera

1918 Influenza Pandemic

Ebola

HIV/AIDS

Heart Disease

Alzheimer’s Disease

Medical Advances after 1900

The 20th century witnessed a profound revolution in medical science, marked by unprecedented advances that transformed the practice of medicine and improved global health outcomes. Following the discovery of antibiotics, such as penicillin in 1928 by Alexander Fleming, the development of new pharmaceuticals and treatments accelerated at an unprecedented pace. Vaccines emerged as powerful tools in preventing infectious diseases, with the introduction of vaccines against polio, measles, mumps, rubella, and other diseases leading to dramatic declines in morbidity and mortality worldwide. Additionally, the refinement of surgical techniques, including minimally invasive procedures and organ transplants, revolutionized patient care and extended lifespans. Diagnostic imaging technologies such as X-rays, MRI, and CT scans enabled healthcare professionals to visualize internal structures and diagnose conditions with unprecedented precision. Moreover, advancements in genetics and molecular biology paved the way for personalized medicine, gene therapy, and the decoding of the human genome, offering new avenues for understanding and treating complex diseases. The integration of technology into healthcare, including electronic medical records, telemedicine, and wearable health devices, has further enhanced patient care and accessibility to medical services. Overall, the medical advances of the 20th and 21st centuries have brought about remarkable improvements in public health, ushering in an era of unprecedented innovation and progress in medicine.

Diseases of Poverty

Since the early 20th century, diseases of poverty such as malaria, tuberculosis, and cholera have persisted as significant global health challenges, particularly affecting populations in low-income regions with limited access to healthcare and sanitation. Malaria, caused by parasites transmitted through mosquito bites, continues to afflict millions worldwide, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Despite efforts to control malaria through measures like insecticide-treated bed nets and antimalarial drugs, the disease remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality, especially among children and pregnant women.

Tuberculosis (TB), an airborne bacterial infection, also remains a major public health concern, with over 10 million new cases reported annually. TB disproportionately affects marginalized communities, including those living in poverty and overcrowded urban areas. The emergence of drug-resistant strains further complicates efforts to control the disease, highlighting the need for improved diagnostics and access to treatment.

Cholera, a waterborne bacterial infection, continues to pose a threat in regions with inadequate sanitation and contaminated water sources, leading to frequent outbreaks in areas affected by conflict or natural disasters. Despite advances in oral rehydration therapy and sanitation practices, cholera outbreaks persist, underscoring the importance of investing in clean water infrastructure and public health interventions.

Over the past century, significant progress has been made in combating these diseases, yet challenges persist due to socioeconomic disparities, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, and ongoing global health crises. Addressing diseases of poverty requires a comprehensive approach that includes improving access to healthcare, sanitation, and clean water, as well as investing in research and development of new diagnostics and treatments. By addressing the root causes of poverty and inequality, we can work towards eliminating these preventable diseases and improving health outcomes for all.

Malaria

Malaria, a mosquito-borne infectious disease, is a significant global health challenge. The disease is transmitted to humans through the bites of infected female mosquitoes, which inject parasites into the bloodstream. Malaria is endemic in many tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia, and parts of South America. While anyone can contract malaria, children under five years old, pregnant women, and travelers from non-endemic areas are particularly vulnerable.

Since 1900, significant progress has been made in the treatment and prevention of malaria, but challenges persist. Early in the 20th century, quinine was the primary treatment for malaria, followed by the development of synthetic antimalarial drugs such as chloroquine and artemisinin derivatives in the mid-20th century. However, widespread use of these drugs led to the emergence of drug-resistant strains of the malaria parasite, complicating treatment efforts.

In recent decades, efforts to combat malaria have focused on a multifaceted approach, including the distribution of insecticide-treated bed nets, indoor residual spraying of insecticides, and the use of antimalarial drugs for prevention and treatment. The development of rapid diagnostic tests has improved the accuracy and timeliness of malaria diagnosis, enabling prompt treatment and reducing the risk of severe complications.

Despite these efforts, malaria remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where the disease burden is highest. Ongoing research efforts are focused on developing new antimalarial drugs, vaccines, and innovative vector control strategies to accelerate progress towards malaria elimination. As we continue to confront the challenges posed by malaria, global cooperation and investment in malaria control and prevention efforts are essential to achieving the ultimate goal of eradicating this deadly disease.

Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body such as the kidneys, spine, and brain. TB is spread through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks, releasing tiny droplets containing the bacteria. Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those living with HIV/AIDS, malnutrition, or diabetes, are at increased risk of developing active TB disease. Historically, TB has been associated with overcrowded and unsanitary living conditions, as well as poverty and malnutrition.

Since the early 20th century, significant progress has been made in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of TB. The development of antibiotics such as streptomycin, isoniazid, and rifampicin in the mid-20th century revolutionized TB treatment, allowing for effective cure of the disease. Additionally, advancements in diagnostic techniques such as sputum microscopy, chest X-rays, and more recently, molecular tests like the GeneXpert MTB/RIF assay, have improved the accuracy and timeliness of TB diagnosis.

Despite these advancements, TB remains a major global health threat, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where access to healthcare and resources may be limited. The emergence of drug-resistant strains of TB, including multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) and extensively drug-resistant TB (XDR-TB), poses significant challenges to TB control efforts, requiring prolonged and more complex treatment regimens.

Efforts to eliminate TB have been hampered by various factors, including inadequate funding, weak healthcare systems, and social determinants of health such as poverty and homelessness. However, the global community has committed to ending the TB epidemic by 2030 as part of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), driving renewed efforts to accelerate progress towards TB elimination. Through increased investment in research, innovation, and collaborative partnerships, there is hope that TB can be effectively controlled and ultimately eradicated, saving millions of lives and improving global health outcomes.

Cholera

Cholera is a bacterial infection caused by the ingestion of water or food contaminated with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. The disease is characterized by severe diarrhea and dehydration, often leading to rapid and life-threatening fluid loss if left untreated. Cholera is primarily spread through the fecal-oral route, typically in areas with inadequate sanitation and access to clean water. While anyone can contract cholera, individuals living in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions, particularly in low-income countries and areas affected by natural disasters or humanitarian crises, are at increased risk.

Since the early 20th century, significant progress has been made in understanding and controlling cholera. Improved sanitation and hygiene practices, such as access to clean water, proper sewage disposal, and education about food and water safety, have played a crucial role in reducing the incidence and impact of cholera outbreaks. Additionally, the development of oral rehydration solutions (ORS) has revolutionized the treatment of cholera, enabling rapid and effective rehydration of patients and reducing mortality rates.

Despite these advancements, cholera remains a persistent threat in many parts of the world, particularly in regions with inadequate infrastructure and limited access to healthcare. The emergence of new strains of cholera, as well as factors such as climate change, population displacement, and urbanization, continue to pose challenges to cholera control efforts.

Efforts to control and prevent cholera have been bolstered by the implementation of vaccination campaigns, particularly in areas prone to outbreaks or with endemic cholera transmission. Oral cholera vaccines have proven to be effective in reducing the incidence of cholera and mitigating the severity of outbreaks, providing an additional tool in the fight against this deadly disease.

Moving forward, addressing the root causes of cholera, including poverty, lack of access to clean water and sanitation, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure, will be essential for achieving sustained control and eventual elimination of the disease. By investing in preventive measures, early detection, and prompt treatment, we can work towards reducing the burden of cholera and improving health outcomes for vulnerable populations worldwide.

Emergent Epidemic Diseases

Emergent epidemic diseases have posed significant challenges to global public health since the early 20th century, with outbreaks such as the 1918 influenza pandemic, Ebola virus disease, HIV/AIDS, and COVID-19 highlighting the interconnectedness of our modern world and the importance of preparedness and response efforts. The 1918 influenza pandemic, also known as the Spanish flu, remains one of the deadliest pandemics in history, claiming millions of lives worldwide. Ebola virus disease, first identified in 1976, has caused sporadic outbreaks in Central and West Africa, characterized by high mortality rates and significant social and economic impacts on affected communities. HIV/AIDS, which emerged in the late 20th century, has evolved into a global pandemic, affecting millions of people and disproportionately impacting vulnerable populations such as sex workers, injection drug users, and LGBTQ+ individuals.

Most recently, the COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, has swept across the globe, resulting in millions of infections and deaths, overwhelming healthcare systems, and disrupting economies and societies worldwide. The rapid spread of COVID-19 underscored the need for robust public health infrastructure, effective communication strategies, and international collaboration in addressing emerging infectious diseases.

Each of these emergent epidemic diseases has presented unique challenges and complexities, requiring multifaceted responses that incorporate medical, social, and political dimensions. Efforts to combat these diseases have involved surveillance, containment, vaccination, treatment, and public health interventions aimed at reducing transmission and mitigating the impact on affected populations. As we continue to navigate the evolving landscape of infectious disease, lessons learned from past outbreaks serve as valuable tools for strengthening global preparedness and response efforts to address emergent epidemic diseases in the future.

The 1918 Flu Pandemic

The 1918 flu pandemic, often referred to as the “Spanish flu,” was one of the deadliest pandemics in human history, affecting millions of people worldwide. The pandemic occurred during the final stages of World War I, spreading rapidly across continents due to increased international travel and wartime conditions. Unlike typical seasonal influenza viruses, the 1918 flu pandemic disproportionately affected young, healthy adults, resulting in high mortality rates among this demographic group. The exact origin of the virus remains uncertain, but it is believed to have emerged from avian or swine influenza viruses. The rapid spread of the virus overwhelmed healthcare systems, leading to shortages of medical personnel, hospital beds, and supplies. Public health measures such as quarantine, isolation, and social distancing were implemented in an attempt to contain the spread of the virus, but their effectiveness was limited due to the lack of understanding of viral transmission and the absence of vaccines or antiviral medications. The 1918 flu pandemic had far-reaching social, economic, and political consequences, influencing public health policies and shaping healthcare systems for decades to come. While the pandemic eventually subsided, it serves as a stark reminder of the potential threat posed by infectious diseases and the importance of global cooperation and preparedness in addressing future pandemics.

Ebola

Ebola virus disease (EVD), or simply Ebola, is a severe and often fatal illness caused by infection with one of the Ebola virus strains. The virus is transmitted to people from wild animals and spreads in the human population through human-to-human transmission. The 2014-2016 Ebola outbreak in West Africa, primarily affecting Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone, was the largest and most complex Ebola outbreak since the virus was first discovered in 1976. Ebola is characterized by symptoms such as fever, severe headache, muscle pain, weakness, diarrhea, vomiting, and in severe cases, internal and external bleeding. The virus has a high fatality rate, ranging from 25% to 90% depending on the strain. There is currently no licensed specific treatment for Ebola, though supportive care such as rehydration and treatment of symptoms can improve survival rates. Prevention efforts include avoiding contact with infected individuals, practicing good hygiene, and implementing strict infection control measures in healthcare settings. While Ebola outbreaks remain a significant public health concern, rapid response efforts, improved surveillance systems, and advancements in vaccine development have contributed to better containment of the virus in recent years.

HIV/AIDS

HIV/AIDS, or Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, is a chronic, potentially life-threatening condition caused by the HIV virus. HIV weakens the immune system by destroying important cells that fight disease and infection, making individuals more susceptible to opportunistic infections and certain cancers. The virus is primarily transmitted through unprotected sexual contact, sharing needles or syringes with an infected person, or from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding. Since the discovery of HIV/AIDS in the early 1980s, the epidemic has had a profound impact on global health, causing millions of deaths and affecting millions more worldwide.

However, significant progress has been made in the prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDS, including the development of antiretroviral therapy (ART) that can effectively suppress the virus and prolong the lives of people living with HIV. Additionally, widespread access to HIV testing, prevention education, and programs promoting safe sex practices have helped reduce new HIV infections in many parts of the world. Despite these advancements, HIV/AIDS remains a significant public health challenge, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where the burden of the epidemic is highest. Ongoing efforts to expand access to HIV testing, treatment, and prevention services, as well as research into new prevention methods and a cure for HIV, are essential for controlling the spread of the virus and ending the HIV/AIDS epidemic once and for all.

Diseases Associated with Increased Longevity

Since the turn of the 20th century, increased longevity has brought about a shift in the epidemiological landscape, with the emergence of chronic diseases such as heart disease and Alzheimer’s disease becoming major public health concerns. As life expectancy has risen due to advancements in healthcare, nutrition, and sanitation, individuals are now more likely to experience age-related diseases associated with prolonged lifespan. Heart disease, encompassing conditions such as coronary artery disease and heart failure, has become the leading cause of death globally, with risk factors including hypertension, high cholesterol, and obesity. Similarly, Alzheimer’s disease, a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, has become increasingly prevalent as populations age, posing significant challenges to healthcare systems and caregivers. Addressing these diseases associated with increased longevity requires a comprehensive approach that includes prevention efforts, early detection, access to quality healthcare, and ongoing research to develop effective treatments and interventions. As the global population continues to age, understanding and mitigating the burden of chronic diseases will be essential for promoting healthy aging and maintaining quality of life in older adults.

Heart Disease

Since 1900, the demographics of heart disease have undergone significant shifts, reflecting changes in lifestyle, healthcare, and population dynamics. In the early 20th century, heart disease was predominantly considered a disease of the affluent and elderly, with rates of heart disease highest among older adults and individuals of higher socioeconomic status. However, as the century progressed, demographic trends began to change, with heart disease emerging as a leading cause of mortality across all demographic groups.

During the mid-20th century, rising rates of urbanization, industrialization, and changes in diet and physical activity patterns contributed to a shift in the demographics of heart disease, with increasing prevalence observed among younger adults and individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. Additionally, disparities in access to healthcare and preventive services further exacerbated the burden of heart disease among marginalized communities, including racial and ethnic minorities.

In recent decades, efforts to address risk factors such as smoking, hypertension, high cholesterol, and obesity have led to improvements in heart disease outcomes, particularly among higher-income and educated populations. However, disparities persist, with certain demographic groups, including African Americans, Hispanics, and individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, experiencing higher rates of heart disease and worse outcomes.

As the global population continues to age and urbanize, and as rates of obesity and diabetes rise, the demographics of heart disease are likely to evolve further. Addressing these demographic shifts will require a multifaceted approach that includes targeted interventions to reduce disparities, improve access to healthcare, promote healthy lifestyle behaviors, and address social determinants of health. By understanding the changing demographics of heart disease, healthcare professionals and policymakers can develop strategies to prevent and manage this leading cause of mortality effectively across diverse populations.

Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease, a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, was first identified by German psychiatrist Alois Alzheimer in 1906. Named after him, the disease is characterized by cognitive decline, memory loss, and changes in behavior and personality. Since its initial recognition, our comprehension of Alzheimer’s has markedly progressed. Diagnosis historically relied on clinical evaluation, including cognitive assessments and medical history, which has been complemented by neuroimaging and biomarker tests in recent years. Nevertheless, accurate diagnosis remains challenging, especially in the early stages when symptoms may be subtle and overlap with normal aging or other forms of dementia.

Advancements in medical imaging techniques, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET), have enabled researchers to visualize changes in the brain associated with Alzheimer’s, including the accumulation of amyloid plaques and tau tangles. Additionally, biomarker tests measuring levels of proteins in cerebrospinal fluid or blood offer promising avenues for early detection and monitoring of the disease.

Since its naming and identification in 1906, our ability to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease has vastly improved, allowing for earlier detection and intervention. However, challenges persist in accurately identifying the disease in its earliest stages and distinguishing it from other forms of dementia.

Furthermore, while treatments exist to manage symptoms, there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s, underscoring the importance of ongoing research to develop effective therapies and ultimately prevent or slow the progression of the disease. As our understanding of Alzheimer’s continues to advance, we are hopeful that improved diagnostic methods and targeted treatments will lead to better outcomes for individuals affected by this devastating condition.

Alois Alzheimer

Alois Alzheimer, born in 1864 in Germany, was a pioneering psychiatrist and neurologist whose name became synonymous with the neurodegenerative disease now known as Alzheimer’s disease. In 1906, while working at the University of Munich, Alzheimer examined the brain of a deceased patient, Auguste Deter, who had exhibited symptoms of profound memory loss and cognitive decline. Alzheimer discovered abnormal clumps and tangles of proteins in her brain tissue, which he described as characteristic features of the disease that would later bear his name. His groundbreaking research laid the foundation for our understanding of Alzheimer’s disease, revolutionizing the field of neuroscience and paving the way for future studies into the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of the condition. Alzheimer’s work remains an enduring legacy, serving as a catalyst for ongoing research efforts aimed at unraveling the complexities of this devastating disease and finding a cure.

Would you rather watch a video on the advances in technology and exchange after 1900?