The Woman Who Knew Too Much

The Woman Who Knew Too Much is a biography of Alice Stewart, a pioneering British physician and epidemiologist. The book, authored by Gayle Greene, was first published in 1999. It explores Stewart's groundbreaking work in the field of radiation and public health, particularly her research on the effects of low-level radiation exposure.

Overview

Cover of The Woman Who Knew Too Much

The Woman Who Knew Too Much delves into the life and career of Alice Stewart, who is best known for her research linking childhood cancer to prenatal X-ray exposure. The book provides a detailed account of Stewart's scientific journey, her challenges in the male-dominated field of medicine, and her persistent advocacy for public health safety.

Alice Stewart's Early Life

Alice Stewart was born in 1906 in Sheffield, England. She pursued a career in medicine at a time when few women were in the field. Stewart graduated from the University of Cambridge and later attended the University of London, where she earned her medical degree.

Career and Research

Stewart's career was marked by her work at the University of Oxford, where she conducted her most significant research. In the 1950s, she began investigating the causes of childhood cancer. Her studies led to the discovery that children whose mothers had undergone X-rays during pregnancy had a higher risk of developing cancer.

The Oxford Survey of Childhood Cancers

The Oxford Survey of Childhood Cancers was a pivotal study led by Stewart. It was one of the first large-scale epidemiological studies to examine the effects of prenatal radiation exposure. The findings were controversial at the time, as they challenged the prevailing medical practices and assumptions about the safety of low-dose radiation.

Impact and Legacy

Alice Stewart's work had a profound impact on public health policies regarding radiation exposure. Her research contributed to changes in medical practices, including the reduction of unnecessary X-rays during pregnancy. Stewart's legacy is celebrated for her dedication to scientific integrity and her role in advancing the understanding of radiation risks.

Related Pages

• Radiation and health
• Epidemiology
• Public health
• Women in science