ABSTRACT
Archaeological discoveries also attest to ancient medical practices. The excavation of a surgeon’s tomb in the eastern necropolis of Paphos, Cyprus, revealed different types of medical implements in use during the Roman period (Michaelides 1984), as well as evidence of medications, some of which were copper-based (Foster et al. 1988). Analysis of latrine contents often provides useful information about intestinal worms and diarrhoea suffered by the inhabitants of a particular site, but cannot connect the health problems identified with specific individuals. Conditions of hygiene, water supply and sewage disposal are also concerns in reconstructing ancient human health. For example, the practice of reusing common toilet sponges
during Graeco-Roman times probably contributed to the spread of disease (Scobie 1986). Even in the most hygienic of Roman public baths, bacteria would undoubtedly have been found. Furthermore, at least during the Roman period, lead was often used in water pipes and the wine-making process, which must have resulted in instances of lead poisoning (Steinbock 1979). Cultural practices associated with personal hygiene, bathing and drinking clearly had a potential effect upon health.
