Philip Showalter Hench, American physician and endocrinologist, Nobel Prize laureate (d. 1965)

Philip Showalter Hench, an influential American physician and medical researcher, left an indelible mark on the world of medicine, most notably through his pivotal work on cortisone. Born on February 28, 1896, and passing away on March 30, 1965, Hench’s career was characterized by dedication to understanding and treating complex diseases.

His journey into medicine began with a strong educational foundation. After completing his undergraduate studies at Lafayette College in Easton, Pennsylvania, he pursued rigorous medical training. This included serving with the United States Army Medical Corps, providing him with practical experience, and later attending the University of Pittsburgh, where he honed his clinical and research skills. These formative years laid the groundwork for his groundbreaking contributions to medical science.

A Career at the Mayo Clinic and the Discovery of Cortisone

Dr. Hench’s professional life truly flourished at the esteemed Mayo Clinic, where he commenced his work in 1923. His talent and dedication quickly became apparent, leading him to a prominent role as the head of the Department of Rheumatology. It was within this environment that he embarked on the research that would ultimately earn him global recognition.

His most significant contribution, a true milestone in medical history, came from his collaborative efforts. In 1950, Philip Showalter Hench, alongside his Mayo Clinic colleague Edward Calvin Kendall and the distinguished Swiss chemist Tadeus Reichstein, was jointly awarded the coveted Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine. This prestigious honor was bestowed upon them for their revolutionary "discoveries relating to the hormones of the adrenal cortex, their structure and biological effects." The trio’s groundbreaking work specifically focused on the discovery of the hormone cortisone and its transformative application for the treatment of debilitating conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

The Impact of Cortisone on Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment

Before the advent of cortisone, rheumatoid arthritis was a severely debilitating chronic inflammatory disorder with limited effective treatment options. Patients often faced severe pain, joint destruction, and progressive disability. The discovery that cortisone, a glucocorticoid hormone, could dramatically reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms was nothing short of miraculous for many sufferers. This medical breakthrough not only offered relief to countless individuals but also opened entirely new avenues for understanding and treating autoimmune diseases, cementing its place as one of the 20th century's most vital medical advancements.

Beyond the Nobel Prize: A Legacy of Curiosity and Excellence

While the Nobel Prize undoubtedly stands as the pinnacle of his career, Dr. Hench’s professional life was rich with other achievements and accolades. Throughout his distinguished career, he received numerous other awards and honors, reflecting the high regard in which he was held by the medical community.

Furthermore, his intellectual curiosity extended beyond his immediate field of research. Philip Showalter Hench maintained a profound and lifelong interest in the history and discovery of yellow fever. This passion for medical history underscored his comprehensive understanding of public health challenges and the historical evolution of disease understanding, demonstrating his breadth as a scholar and a physician dedicated to knowledge in all its forms.

Frequently Asked Questions about Philip Showalter Hench

Who was Philip Showalter Hench?

Philip Showalter Hench (1896–1965) was a prominent American physician and medical researcher. He is best known for his groundbreaking work on the hormone cortisone and its application in treating rheumatoid arthritis, for which he received the Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine in 1950.

What was his most significant discovery?

His most significant discovery was the identification of the hormone cortisone and demonstrating its therapeutic effectiveness in treating conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. This work significantly advanced the understanding and treatment of inflammatory diseases.

When did he win the Nobel Prize and with whom?

He won the Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine in 1950. He shared the award with his Mayo Clinic colleague Edward Calvin Kendall and Swiss chemist Tadeus Reichstein.

What was his role at Mayo Clinic?

Philip Showalter Hench began working at the Mayo Clinic in 1923, where he later rose to become the head of the Department of Rheumatology. It was during his tenure there that he conducted the pioneering research that led to the discovery and application of cortisone.

What other interests did he have?

Beyond his core medical research, Dr. Hench held a significant and lifelong interest in the history and discovery of yellow fever, showcasing his broad intellectual curiosity within the field of medicine.