David A. Karnofsky

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David A. Karnofsky.jpg
David A. Karnofsky
BornMarch 28, 1914
DiedAugust 31, 1969
NationalityAmerican
Alma materHarvard Medical School
Known forKarnofsky Performance Status Scale
Scientific career
FieldsOncology
InstitutionsMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center


David A. Karnofsky (March 28, 1914 – August 31, 1969) was an American oncologist renowned for his contributions to the field of cancer treatment and chemotherapy. He is best known for developing the Karnofsky Performance Status Scale, a standard way of measuring the ability of cancer patients to perform ordinary tasks.

Early Life and Education[edit | edit source]

David A. Karnofsky was born on March 28, 1914, in the United States. He pursued his medical education at Harvard Medical School, where he developed an interest in oncology.

Career[edit | edit source]

Karnofsky's career was primarily associated with the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, where he made significant advancements in the treatment of cancer. His work in chemotherapy helped to establish protocols that are still in use today.

Karnofsky Performance Status Scale[edit | edit source]

The Karnofsky Performance Status Scale is one of Karnofsky's most notable contributions. This scale is used to assess the functional status of a patient and helps in determining their prognosis and appropriate treatment options. It ranges from 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating better functional status.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

David A. Karnofsky's work has had a lasting impact on the field of oncology. The Karnofsky Performance Status Scale remains a critical tool in both clinical practice and research. His contributions have paved the way for advancements in cancer treatment and patient care.

Death[edit | edit source]

David A. Karnofsky passed away on August 31, 1969. His legacy continues to influence the field of oncology and the treatment of cancer patients.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


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