These days chemotherapy or ‘chemo’ is a common treatment for cancer. But did you know that part of the reason it exists today is because of a terrible accident that happened in Italy during World War 2?

The Bari bombing was known as the ‘Little Pearl Harbour’ and it saw hundreds of American and British soldiers killed by mustard gas that was being secretly transported to Europe inside an American ship. Despite Winston Churchill’s attempts to cover up what happened, one doctor was determined to find the truth.

Journalist Jennet Conant dives deep into the historical records, including records on her own family, and tells host Marc Fennell (Stuff the British Stole, Mastermind) how one doctor’s shocking discovery contributed to the development of one of the world’s leading cancer drugs.

Get in touch:

Got a story for us? We'd love to hear from you! Email us at noonesawitcoming@abc.net.au

The Hidden Origins of Chemotherapy