Human biology investigations during the heroic age of Antarctic exploration (1897–1922)
ABSTRACT This article describes the human biological data that was collected from the participants of the Antarctic expeditions of the ‘heroic age’ (1897–1922). Routine body weights, waist circumference, spirometry and grip strength measurements were performed on a number of the expeditions for moni...
| Published in: | Polar Record |
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| Main Author: | |
| Format: | Article in Journal/Newspaper |
| Language: | English |
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Cambridge University Press (CUP)
2013
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| Online Access: | http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s0032247412000526 https://www.cambridge.org/core/services/aop-cambridge-core/content/view/S0032247412000526 |
| Summary: | ABSTRACT This article describes the human biological data that was collected from the participants of the Antarctic expeditions of the ‘heroic age’ (1897–1922). Routine body weights, waist circumference, spirometry and grip strength measurements were performed on a number of the expeditions for monitoring health and at least four expeditions measured the haemoglobin level and demonstrated that anaemia did not occur. The only true research was done by Dr A.L. McLean of the Australasian Antarctic Expedition, who measured hair and nail growth and investigated immunity. By modern standards, the data collected is of little value but McLean's work laid the groundwork for modern research into the effects of Antarctic residence on the human organism. |
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