Human biology investigations during the heroic age of Antarctic exploration (1897–1922)

Abstract

This article describes the human biological data that was collected from the participants of the Antarctic expeditions of the ‘heroic age’ (1897–1922). Routine body weights, waist circumference, spirometry and grip strength measurements were performed on a number of the expeditions for monitoring health and at least four expeditions measured the haemoglobin level and demonstrated that anaemia did not occur. The only true research was done by Dr A.L. McLean of the Australasian Antarctic Expedition, who measured hair and nail growth and investigated immunity. By modern standards, the data collected is of little value but McLean's work laid the groundwork for modern research into the effects of Antarctic residence on the human organism.

Archibald Lang McLean (1885–1922) – Explorer, writer and soldier

“…He recognised these problems himself and, because of them, did not draw any conclusions from his results. 8 However, it can be said that he laid the foundations for modern physiological research in the Antarctic 9 and subsequent work has shown that Antarctic residency does have effects on the immune system. 10 Polar psychology has been a major area of research in recent years for the study of the effects of isolation, confinement and the 24-hour darkness of a polar winter, 11 and Antarctic bases have been used as a model for what might happen in a prolonged voyage into space.…”

“…He recognised these problems himself and, because of them, did not draw any conclusions from his results. 8 However, it can be said that he laid the foundations for modern physiological research in the Antarctic 9 and subsequent work has shown that Antarctic residency does have effects on the immune system. 10…”