Paul de Kruif, American science writer on malaria: a case study.

Abstract

From 1926 onward, science writer Paul de Kruif has popularized the history of great discoveries in the science of diseases, malaria among them. During the thirties he focused on abuses and neglects of medical care and pointed to new developments, e.g., the treatment of syphilis with heat, rather than with malaria therapy. He conveyed his messages in popular magazines, using a romantic style and explicit language that was unheard of. He promoted new drugs, like Atabrine for endemic malaria and for the military engaged in (sub-) tropical war zones. Medical authorities were unhappy that his message about Atabrine was so dramatic, raising unwarranted hope of eradication. By the end of the Second World War, however, the usefulness of Atabrine was recognized. In my research I consulted original sources: letters, articles and books of De Kruif, as well as contemporary scientific publications; recent books on malaria history helped to design the historiography. Paul de Kruif's dealing with various malaria topics is presented as a case study of science writing. Modern malaria research requires skilled journalists: they can excite public interest about problems in distant parts of the tropical world and work to raise funds. Journalists should also push for the translation of (bio-) medical progress to applicable tools in malaria control.