Friedrich Papanicolaou

Friedrich Papanicolaou was a Greek-American physician and pathologist, best known for developing the Pap smear, a crucial screening test for cervical cancer. In the 1940s, he introduced this procedure, where cells are collected from the cervix and examined for abnormalities. His work significantly improved early detection and treatment of cervical cancer, saving countless lives. The Pap smear remains a vital part of women's health care today, helping to identify potential health issues before they become serious. Papanicolaou's contributions have made a lasting impact on preventive medicine and women's health globally.