The Masters of Medicine: Our Greatest Triumphs in the Race to Cure Humanity's Deadliest Diseases

The battle to confront half-dozen diseases responsible for killing almost all of mankind is a tale of human achievement, with Dr. Andrew Lam distilling the long arc of medical progress down to the crucial moments that were responsible for the world's greatest medical miracles. Readers will discover fascinating true stories throughout history, including rival surgeons, Canadians who discovered insulin, penicillin, the feud between two Americans in the quest for the polio vaccine, the discredited New York surgeon whose "heretical" idea to cure patients by deliberately infecting them has now inspired our next best hope to defeat cancer, and the Hungarian doctor who solved the greatest mystery of maternal deaths in childbirth.

Format: Hardback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 11 April 2023
Publisher: BenBella Books

Human history has been shaped by the relentless fight against the six deadly diseases that have claimed the lives of nearly all of humanity. The story of our medical triumphs is a testament to the remarkable achievements of the human race, yet the journey was far from smooth. It is a tale filled with dramatic episodes, reminiscent of the best Hollywood movies. In his book, "The Masters of Medicine," Dr. Andrew Lam, an award-winning author and retinal surgeon, delves into the long arc of medical progress, highlighting the crucial moments that led to the world's greatest medical miracles. Through captivating storytelling, he brings to life heroic tales of embattled mavericks who endured ridicule and even risked their lives to conceive the life-saving cures we rely on today, often taking them for granted.

Throughout history, readers will discover fascinating true stories, such as:

Rival surgeons who engaged in a deadly competition to operate on beating hearts, ultimately paving the way for the life-saving heart transplant.

A quartet of Canadians who miraculously discovered insulin, a breakthrough that revolutionized the treatment of diabetes. However, their journey was marred by jealousy and resentment.

The discovery of penicillin, a game-changing antibiotic that saved countless lives during World War II. Yet, the doctors who gave it to the world were robbed of the credit they deserved.

The feud between two Americans in the quest for the polio vaccine, a contest that persisted long after both died and continues to this day.

The discredited New York surgeon whose "heretical" idea to cure patients by deliberately infecting them has now inspired our next best hope to defeat cancer.

The Hungarian doctor who solved the greatest mystery of maternal deaths in childbirth, only to be ostracized for his discovery.

"The Masters of Medicine" is a captivating chronicle of human courage, audacity, error, and luck. It expertly highlights the triumphs and challenges of medical pioneers, reminding us of the incredible strides we have made in the field of medicine. This riveting ode to mankind serves as a reminder of the indomitable human spirit and the power of innovation and collaboration in the face of adversity.

Weight: 581g
Dimension: 236 x 159 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781637742631