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To mark its 'centenary' the Science Museum in South Kensington conducted a poll against a list of what its staff thought might count amongst the most important scientific discoveries in history. Xrays, invented in 1895, came first, Penicillin, discovered in 1928, came second and the DNA double helix, identified in 1953, came third. Inventions related to engineering, telecommunications, computing and space exploration were rated as less significant by visitors. The London Museums of Health and Medicine network already had an inkling that the public feels this way...we're pleased to receive the public's endorsement for the scientific discoveries that our various member museums interpret.

All of the ten items featured in the poll were selected as candidates by Science Museum curators from items in that museum's collection and may be visited by following a special trail. The full story of Penicillin can, of course, be explored in greater detail at the Alexander Fleming Laboratory Museum. About a fifth of the 50,000 votes cast in the poll were for X-rays. If you'd rather see real bones and not just silhouetted photographs of them try the Hunterian Museum. 
 
What do YOU think was the most important medical breakthrough in history? Use the 'contact us' link above to let us know and we'll publish any interesting responses.