The medical history of South Georgia

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe first landing on South Georgia was made in 1775. Sealing expeditions arrived soon afterwards, and during the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries men plundered the beaches and seas surrounding the island for seals and whales. Sealing and whaling ceased in the 1960s, when declining whale numbers and the increasing use of other forms of oil made the industry uneconomical. Although an isolated island with a small population and a severe climate, South Georgia has a rich history. Its medical history has not been previously studied. This paper aims to look at some aspects of the medical history of the island, from early expeditions of discovery, through to the 20th century whaling industry. Surviving whalers and whaling doctors were interviewed. Published material with any relevance to South Georgia, including academic texts and personal memoirs, were searched for details of hospitals, doctors and medical events on the island. Documents archived in South Georgia, the Falkland Islands and the United Kingdom revealed much useful information, and occasional documents came to light from other sources. Aspects of the provision of medical services over two centuries from 1775 to the beginning of the 1960s are described. Morbidity and mortality are summarised and discussed, as are differences between medical care in South Georgia and standard care.