Theme:
2. Archaeological Sciences, Humanities and the Digital era: Bridging the Gaps
Session format:
Regular session
Title:
All in One Breath: (Bio)Archaeological Approaches to Respiratory Diseases
Content:
According to the World Health Organization, respiratory disorders (e.g., sinus, ear, or pulmonary infections) are currently among the greatest contributors to the global burden of disease and constitute one of the most recurring causes of impairment and death. The aetiologies of these conditions vary greatly and range from environmental conditions (e.g., climate change, poor air quality) to cultural factors, such as tobacco and alcohol consumption, occupational hazards, diet, and more. Because of their prevalence today, many archaeological studies have recently begun to address the impact that respiratory infections may have had on the well-being of past populations. However, the intricate aetiology of most respiratory disorders often makes it difficult to interpret results in past populations and, to date, there are only few, limited guidelines on how to assess their prevalence.
The goal of this session is to provide valuable insights into the intricate nature of respiratory diseases and their study in archaeological and/or historical populations, utilizing diverse research methodologies and approaches produced from both bioarchaeological and clinical studies. By generating discussion on respiratory diseases and exploring the intricate connections between these diseases and human environments, our goal is to contribute to the current archaeological comprehension of respiratory infections and to create a platform for future research endeavours.
We welcome both papers and posters that:
• Analyse patterns of prevalence and distribution of respiratory diseases among ancient populations through different (bio)archaeological methods.
• Explore the methodologies employed in diagnosing respiratory diseases in archaeological remains, showcasing innovative techniques and/or technologies.
As we collectively investigate patterns of prevalence, distribution, and innovative diagnostic techniques, we not only enrich our understanding of the human past but also lay the foundation for more comprehensive research in the future.
Keywords:
Paleopathology, Air Quality, Infectious Disease, Environmental Change
Session associated with MERC:
no
Session associated with CIfA:
no
Session associated with SAfA:
no
Session associated with CAA:
no
Session associated with DGUF:
no
Session associated with other:
Main organiser:
Maia Casna (Netherlands) 1
Co-organisers:
Anna Davies-Barrett (United Kingdom) 2
Bruno Magalhães (Portugal) 3
Affiliations:
1. Leiden University
2. University of Leicester
3. University of Coimbra
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