AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Ancient Tuberculosis Evidence
- The oldest evidence of TB comes from Egyptian mummies (3700 BC) and a Peruvian mummy (3000 years ago).
- The Peruvian mummy suggests TB existed in the Americas pre-European contact, possibly evolving from bovine TB.
The Royal Touch
- Around 1000 AD, European royalty practiced "the royal touch" to cure TB, involving touching sores and prayer.
- The benefit likely came from rest and improved diet at the castle, not royal magic.
Industrial Revolution and TB
- The Industrial Revolution worsened TB spread due to crowded cities and poor living conditions.
- Overcrowded housing and hazardous jobs facilitated TB transmission.