History and Development of X-Rays Essay Example

X-rays are one of the greatest medical achievements of all time. They help us view the inside of the body, which can help find conditions and create diagnosis. You may be wondering how Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen discovered x-rays? Well, Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen unintentionally made this discovery on November 8, 1895, in Germany located in a lab where he was testing if cathode rays could pass through glass when he observed a radiance coming from a nearby chemically coated screen. Because of this accidental discovery, Wilhelm continued a series of experiments to better understand the nature behind his discovery. “X-rays are electromagnetic energy waves that act similarly to light rays, but at wavelengths approximately 1,000 times shorter than those of light” (A&E Television Networks, 2009). “… He learned that X-rays penetrate human flesh but not higher-density substances such as bone or lead and that they can be photographed” (A&E Television Networks, 2009). Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen's discovery of X-rays has had a very positive impact in the medical field. X-rays have allowed doctors to look inside the body without undergoing surgery. There are many common uses including the following, examining the heart and lung, identifying any factors or breaks, dental treatment as well as observing the stomach. X-rays have left such a positive, and ongoing impact on health science. This tool allows people in the medical field to have the ability to a wide variety of examinations and procedures. When the X-ray was put to the test, it was used in the first World War. Experiences have confirmed that we could not have modern medicine without X-rays, proving it has changed the field of health science. X-rays were brought to field hospitals and an extensive amount of x-rays were taken. This first started changing health science when it allowed doctors to view their body and plan for operations during the war. Not only did X-ray play a major role during the World War, but during the 20th century as well. During this time, one of the most contagious and deadly infectious diseases in the world had appeared. X-rays took part in a very important role by treating tuberculosis. It allowed tuberculosis to be detected before it could progress into a contagious stage. Therefore, helping spread a very deadly disease worldwide. X-rays have improved our lives in a tremendous way, and many benefits come with it. Some benefits due to this discovery are, medical diagnosis have become more accurate and the results are much faster than prior ways. This discovery led to the development of further medical technologies as well. For example, other imaging technologies like CT scans, mammograms, etc. have been recognized. “CT scans, in particular, have become a significant part of medical diagnosis, with over 80 million CT scans done every year in the US alone. A recent study showed that after a CT scan of the chest, the doctor's initial diagnosis changes 42% of the time and 51% after an abdomen scan” (EBR, 2022). As you can see, X-rays has grown into developing new technologies to help advance the health science as well as changing the field by saving and improving millions of lives.