Famous Turkish Physicians

Pedanius Dioscorides was a renowned Greek physician, pharmacologist, botanist, and author of De materia medica, an influential 5-volume Greek encyclopedia on herbal medicine and medicinal substances. Known as "the father of pharmacognosy", his work was highly regarded for over 1,500 years, establishing him as the foremost authority on plants and plant-based medicines. Dioscorides' professional life was dedicated to advancing the understanding and practice of pharmacology, leaving a lasting impact on the field of medicine through his comprehensive writings and contributions.

Ctesias, also known as Ctesias of Cnidus, was a Greek physician and historian from the town of Cnidus in Caria during the fifth century BC. He served as a physician in the Achaemenid court. Ctesias gained recognition for his medical expertise and knowledge of the Persian Empire. He later wrote several works, including a history of Persia and a detailed account of India. Ctesias' writings were influential in shaping Greek perceptions of the East and have provided valuable insights into ancient medicine and history.

Herophilos, a Greek physician, is renowned as one of the earliest anatomists. Born in Chalcedon, he spent most of his life in Alexandria. He was a pioneering scientist who conducted systematic dissections of human cadavers, producing over nine works that unfortunately are now lost. Despite controversial claims of vivisection, his contributions to anatomy are highly regarded. Herophilos is often hailed as the father of anatomy for his groundbreaking work and significant impact on the field.

Canan Kaftancıoğlu is a Turkish physician and politician known for serving as the president of the Republican People's Party's (CHP) in Istanbul. She gained attention for her involvement in legal issues, including being sentenced to imprisonment for insulting the president and facing terrorism-related charges. Despite these challenges, she continued to be active in political affairs and made headlines for her trial following tweets about sensitive topics such as the Armenian genocide and assassinations. Kaftancıoğlu's professional life reflects her commitment to political activism and advocacy.

Safiye Ali was a pioneering Turkish physician who made significant contributions to the field of medicine. As the second female doctor in the Republic of Turkey, she played a crucial role in treating soldiers during various wars. She graduated from the prestigious Robert College in Istanbul and furthered her medical studies in Germany. Safiye focused her research on maternal and infant health, becoming a leading figure in this area. Additionally, she was a trailblazer as the first woman to teach medicine in Turkey, leaving a lasting impact on the medical community.

Nicander of Colophon was a versatile ancient Greek figure known for his contributions in poetry, medicine, and grammar. He wrote extensively on topics such as venomous animals, poisons, and their antidotes. Nicander's works, including the poems Theriaca and Alexipharmaca, were highly regarded in his time and influenced later writers such as Ovid, Lucan, and Pliny. His expertise in medical knowledge was drawn from sources like the physician Apollodorus of Egypt. Nicander's impact on literary and medical circles of his era continues to be acknowledged through references in various texts.

Müge Çevik is a physician specializing in infectious diseases research and science communication at the University of St Andrews. Her expertise lies in HIV, viral hepatitis, emerging infections, and tropical diseases in developing nations. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Çevik served as an advisor to the Chief Medical Officer of Scotland and the World Health Organization. She is also a member of the New and Emerging Respiratory Virus Threats Advisory Group, an expert committee within the UK Department of Health advising the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies.

Mahmut Gazi Yaşargil is a distinguished Turkish medical scientist and neurosurgeon known for his pioneering work in microneurosurgery. He collaborated with Raymond M. P. Donaghy M.D at the University of Vermont, developing innovative techniques for treating epilepsy and brain tumors with instruments of his own design. Throughout his career, he held various positions at the University of Zurich and the Zurich University Hospital, including professor and chairman of the Department of Neurosurgery. Yaşargil's contributions have earned him international recognition as one of the greatest neurosurgeons of the modern era.

Mabel Matiz, the stage name of Turkish pop music singer-songwriter Fatih Karaca, has garnered recognition for his creative and introspective approach to music. Drawing inspiration from literature and language, he crafted a unique persona that reflects his perspective on the world. With five studio albums under his belt, Matiz has established himself as a prominent figure in the Turkish music scene. His work showcases a blend of emotive storytelling and catchy melodies, captivating audiences with his artistry and passion for music.