Arctic and Antarctic exploration including the contributions of physicians and effects of disease in the polar regions.

A history of Arctic and Antarctic exploration, whether to find a Northwest Passage, North Pole, or South Pole, is a story of triumph and tribulation. The hardship experienced by polar explorers in the last 1000 years permeates the tales of achievement. Physicians and surgeons have played prominent roles in all major polar explorations. No significant Arctic voyage, particularly in the last 300 years, was made without a member of the party trained in the management of medical emergencies and in basic surgery. During times of health, surgeons functioned as the voyage naturalists with expertise in biology, botany, zoology, and the writing of scientific catalogs. Spurred by our interest and fascination with the history of polar exploration, we reviewed the roles of physicians and natural scientists in Arctic and Antarctic adventures.