George Draper (physician)

George Draper (1880–1959) was an American physician and medical researcher known for his work in constitutional medicine and his contributions to the understanding of the relationship between personality and disease. Draper was a prominent figure in the early 20th century and made significant strides in the field of psychosomatic medicine.

Early Life and Education

George Draper was born in 1880. He pursued his medical education at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, where he earned his M.D. degree. Draper was influenced by the work of William Osler and other leading medical figures of his time.

Career

Draper began his career as a practicing physician but soon turned his focus to medical research. He was particularly interested in the concept of constitutional medicine, which examines the role of an individual's physical and psychological constitution in their susceptibility to disease. Draper believed that understanding a patient's personality and emotional state was crucial for effective medical treatment.

Contributions to Medicine

Draper's work in psychosomatic medicine was pioneering. He argued that emotional and psychological factors could significantly influence physical health. This perspective was innovative at a time when the medical community primarily focused on biological and physiological causes of disease.

Draper published several influential papers and books on the subject, including "Disease and the Man" and "Human Constitution and Disease." His research emphasized the importance of a holistic approach to medicine, considering both the mind and body in the diagnosis and treatment of illness.

Legacy

George Draper's contributions to medicine have had a lasting impact. His work laid the groundwork for modern psychosomatic medicine and influenced subsequent research in the field. Draper's emphasis on the interplay between personality and disease has been integrated into contemporary medical practices, highlighting the importance of a comprehensive approach to patient care.

Personal Life

Draper was married and had children. He continued to be active in the medical community until his death in 1959.

See Also

• Psychosomatic medicine
• Constitutional medicine
• William Osler
• Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons