What exactly did Thalidomide do to the developing fetus?
When taken during the first trimester of pregnancy, thalidomide prevented the proper growth of the fetus resulting in horrific birth defects (“thalidomide embryopathy”) in thousands of children around the world.
What kind of drug was thalidomide?
Thalidomide is in a class of medications called immunomodulatory agents. It treats multiple myeloma by strengthening the immune system to fight cancer cells. It treats ENL by blocking the action of certain natural substances that cause swelling.
Can thalidomide cause birth defects?
Between 1957 and 1962, thalidomide caused severe birth defects in over 10,000 children. Almost any tissue/organ could be affected by thalidomide.
Is Thalidomide a teratogen?
Thalidomide is a potent teratogen that induces a range of birth defects, most commonly of the developing limbs. The mechanisms underpinning the teratogenic effects of thalidomide are unclear.
Are any thalidomide babies still alive?
Limbs can fail to develop properly, in some cases also eyes, ears and internal organs. No-one knows how many miscarriages the drug caused, but it’s estimated that, in Germany alone, 10,000 babies were born affected by Thalidomide. Many were too damaged to survive for long. Today, fewer than 3,000 are still alive.
What happened to Jenny on Call The Midwife?
Jessica Raine, the lead actress in Call The Midwife, has left the show after an emotional series three finale. Jenny Lee, The actress’ character, left her job as a midwife in London to take up a new position as a nurse in a Marie Curie cancer hospice, and to start a new life with Phillip Worth (Stephen Ashfield).
Who does Jenny marry in Call the Midwife?
Philip Worth
What happened to Delia and Patsy?
In Series Four, Episode Two, it is revealed that Patsy is in a relationship with Delia Busby, a nurse whom she had previously worked with at The London. Tragically, just after they moved, Delia was involved in a traffic accident in the Series Four finale, leaving her with amnesia and no memory of Patsy.
Does Ursula sister leave?
She decides to leave Nonnatus House and places Sister Julienne back in charge. Even after committing a cardinal sin by taking Sister Monica Joan’s candy, Sister Ursula is able to reconcile with her before her departure.
Which characters are real in Call the Midwife?
Here’s What the Cast of Call the Midwife Looks Like in Real Life
- Jenny Agutter as Sister Julienne.
- Helen George as Trixie Franklin.
- Leonie Elliott as Lucille Anderson.
- Laura Main as Shelagh Turner.
- Stephen McGann as Dr.
- Jennifer Kirby as Valerie Dyer.
- Judy Parfitt as Sister Monica Joan.
- Linda Bassett as Phyllis Crane.