One of the characteristics of established institutions or reputable fields of human endeavor is the adoption of an emblem, logo or symbol by which they are generally known. Medical practice in fact is perceived to be as old as man himself. And over the years, the practice has emerged to be indispensable to human existence.

For centuries now, renowned medical organizations across the globe have adopted the Staff of Asclepius symbol while some others have chosen the Caduceus.

 As a matter of fact, the practice of medicine and health care in general is experiencing a dichotomy. There are breathtaking breakthroughs in both preventive and curative medicine. Today, we can talk about hemispherectomy, mastectomy, hysterectomy and other “tomies” and also, transplants. The advent of medical procedures such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is also one of the remarkable advancements in modern medicine. Furthermore, a disease such as poliomyelitis has become an occurrence of the past in almost every part of the world.

However, the challenges that continue to face the medical profession are quite enormous too. The HIV/AIDS endemic is still defying curative medication and the eruption of cases of cancer all over the globe continues to be a puzzle to medical scientists.

In all, it’s not time to give up as these symbols of medicine which have outlived centuries continue to inspire the medical profession.