early 20th century medicine

Early 20th-century medicine was a time of significant transition, blending traditional practices with emerging scientific approaches. Antibiotics were yet to be discovered, so infections often led to death. Surgery advanced with better anesthesia and antiseptic techniques, reducing complications. X-rays became a useful tool for diagnosis. However, limited understanding of germs and disease meant many treatments were ineffective or harmful. Public health initiatives improved sanitation, reducing disease spread. Overall, this period laid important groundwork for modern medicine, setting the stage for breakthroughs like antibiotics and vaccines in subsequent decades.