The Sociology of Health

In: New statesman & society, Band 1, Heft 5

Abstract

The work of British epidemiologist Thomas McKeown (died 13 June 1988) is briefly described & assessed. McKeown provided evidence that public hygiene & improved nutritional standards have contributed more to improve health & longevity than the major breakthroughs in curative medicine. While individual responsibility is a necessary element in preventive medicine, McKeown saw some measures as the responsibility of the state. 1 Photograph, 3 References. F. S. J. Ledgister