Issue Date: May 3, 2009
How a deadly gas became a lifesaver
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Chemotherapy's origins go back to World War I.
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The word "chemotherapy" is inextricably linked to healing, although its origins derive from the deadly mustard gas used in World War I. Today, medical specialists all over the world use this powerful tool as part of cancer treatment. Now there are about 100 types of chemotherapy that are available for use -- a huge accomplishment considering that it was only 60 years ago that the Food and Drug Administration approved the first chemotherapeutic agent.
During World War I, it was noted that many soldiers exposed to mustard gas developed declines in bone and lymph system function. Scientists theorized that such chemical power, if harnessed, might wreak havoc on cancer cells. In 1942, when an anonymous patient first received "Compound X," doctors hoped that the cancer would respond favorably, which it did, at least for a short period of time.
By 1949, enough positive studies were available to convince the FDA to approve nitrogen mustard for treatment. Since then, strides in chemotherapy have given cancer specialists more options. Although these drugs are harsh and can be dangerous, they are lifesavers. Considering the original chemical was developed as a tool of death, that's a pleasant irony.
Tedd Mitchell, M.D., president and CEO of Dallas' Cooper Clinic, writes HealthSmart every week.
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