YELLAPRAGADA SUBBAROW: DISEASES WERE HIS ENEMIES

Abstract

Prof. K. V. Gopalakrishnan is a professor at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Madras since 1962. His speciality is internal combustion (I.C.) engines. He has done extensive research work on alternative fuels for I.C. engines including alcohols, hydrogen, etc., and control of air pollution from engines. In this article, Prof. K. V. Gopalakrishnan highlights the life and contributions of Dr. Yellapragada Subbarow, a pioneer in the field of modern medicine. In spite of his great contributions, the author points out that Subbarow is not widely known, even in his homeland India. The article takes us through the numerous hardships and academic setbacks faced by Subbarow during his early life and how he overcame those with determination. Through his research work, how Subbarow contributed towards successful development of crucial medicines for tropical spruce, filaria and plague, saving countless lives during that time have been highlighted in the article. The author alludes that Subbarow’s story serves as an inspiration, bringing about the profound impact of medical advancements on human health and life expectancy.