Question 1: Describe how the discovery of penicillin in 1928 changed the treatment of bacterial infections. Include at least two specific impacts.

Answer: The discovery of penicillin revolutionized medicine by providing an effective treatment for bacterial infections that previously often resulted in death. It reduced mortality rates and made it possible to treat infections like pneumonia and syphilis effectively, saving many lives.

Question 2: Explain the significance of the development of the polio vaccine in the 1950s. How did it impact public health?

Answer: The polio vaccine was significant because it drastically reduced the incidence of poliomyelitis, a disease that caused paralysis and death. It led to the near eradication of polio in many countries and improved overall child health and safety.

Question 3: Identify two technological advances that have improved diagnostic methods in modern medicine and explain their importance.

Answer: Two advances are X-ray imaging and MRI scans. X-rays allow doctors to see inside the body to diagnose fractures and diseases, while MRI scans provide detailed images of soft tissues, aiding in accurate diagnosis without surgery.

Question 4: Discuss the role of antibiotics in modern medicine and mention one challenge associated with their use.

Answer: Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections and have saved millions of lives. However, a challenge is the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which makes some infections harder to treat.

Question 5: Sketch a simple diagram showing the basic structure of a modern vaccine. Label the main parts and briefly explain their function.

Answer: A correct sketch would include a container (vial or syringe), the vaccine substance (e.g., weakened or inactivated pathogen component), and labels indicating 'antigen' and 'adjuvant'. The antigen stimulates the immune response, while the adjuvant boosts it.

Question 6: Describe the impact of the NHS (National Health Service) established in 1948 on healthcare in the UK.

Answer: The NHS made healthcare free at the point of use for all UK residents, improving access to medical services regardless of income. It increased life expectancy and reduced health inequalities.

Question 7: Explain how the development of CT scans in the 1970s improved medical diagnosis.

Answer: CT scans provided detailed cross-sectional images of the body, allowing doctors to diagnose internal injuries, tumors, and other conditions more accurately and quickly than previous methods.

Question 8: Identify one ethical issue related to modern medical advancements and discuss its implications.

Answer: One ethical issue is cloning or genetic modification, which raises concerns about identity, consent, and potential misuse. It prompts debates on the morality and safety of manipulating human genetics.

Question 9: Describe how modern medicine has contributed to increasing life expectancy in the UK during the 20th and 21st centuries.

Answer: Advances such as vaccines, antibiotics, improved diagnostics, and better healthcare infrastructure have reduced mortality from infectious and chronic diseases, leading to longer average lifespans.