We were thrilled to welcome Dr. Laurie Wilkie from the Department of Anthropology for the July installment of “CEND It!”
Dr. Wilkie, Professor and an anthropological archaeologist whose research explores 19th- and 20th-century life in the United States and Caribbean, shared her research on the history of tuberculosis treatment in California. Drawing on documentary and material evidence, her talk explored the history of tuberculosis sanatoriums in the state and the ways communities responded to the disease. We learned about the stigma surrounding being a TB patient during the 1900's, evidence of TB infection based on archeological findings, and even the rise of "TB chic."
With tuberculosis continuing to cause more than a million deaths each year and cases rising globally, the discussion offered a timely opportunity to examine historical approaches to TB treatment and consider the lessons they may hold for public health today. The talk highlighted the value of looking to the past to better understand the challenges of disease prevention, treatment, and response in the present.
We thank Dr. Wilkie for sharing her research and all attendees for their thoughtful questions and participation. We look forward to seeing you all at the next one!