Hulusi Behçet
In 1889, a child was born in Istanbul: Hulusi. He was extremely curious. He constantly asked questions of those around him and loved reading books. He was especially fascinated by why people became ill. Even at that young age, he thought, “One day I will heal people.”
The Path to Becoming a Doctor
As he grew up, Hulusi turned his dream into reality. He entered medical school and specialized in skin diseases. He spent years studying wounds, rashes, and eye disorders. During World War I, he provided care to patients at the rear lines. Even during these difficult years, he never lost his passion for science.
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Professorship and Firsts
In 1933, he became a professor at Istanbul University. This was highly significant, because he was the first person in Türkiye to be awarded the title of professor! He taught his students while continuing his research. The young people who attended his classes gained not only knowledge but also a love for science.
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A Discovery: Behçet’s Disease
Hulusi Behçet was a meticulous observer. One day, he noticed similar symptoms in several patients:
- Sores in the mouth
- Rashes on the skin
- Inflammation in the eyes
He believed these symptoms were not coincidental. After years of careful study, in 1937 he described an entirely new disease. It was named after him: Behçet’s Disease. Thus, his name was written in golden letters in the history of medicine.
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A Renowned Turkish Scientist
Behçet’s discovery was not only known in Türkiye but also across the entire world. In 1947, at a medical congress held in Switzerland, the disease was officially named Morbus Behçet (Behçet’s Disease). For the first time, the name of a Turkish doctor became internationally recognized through a disease bearing his name.
Books and Scientific Publications
Hulusi Behçet was not only a treating physician but also a prolific writer. He authored nearly 200 scientific articles, published medical journals, and proposed new terminology. Thanks to him, many medical terms in Turkish began to be widely used. This allowed students and young doctors to access science in their own language.
An Inspiring Teacher
Students who observed him did not only learn from his knowledge but also emulated his patience and attention to detail. Hulusi Behçet said, “Science is not only in books—it is hidden in the eyes, hands, and hearts of patients.” His approach instilled in young doctors the spirit of inquiry and research.
Why Is He Important?
Hulusi Behçet became known worldwide for discovering a disease. But what truly made him significant was his journey—from a curious child to a life devoted to science. Being the first person in Türkiye to hold the title of professor, introducing Turkish terminology into medicine, and his groundbreaking scientific work made him unforgettable.
