Agnew, W. P. (William Penn)

About the author

William Penn Agnew (1851?–1931) was an American physician and medical writer who specialized in proctology at a time when the subject remained largely taboo. His book Treatment of hemorrhoids, and other non-malignant rectal diseases reflects the gradual shift in late 19th- and early 20th-century medicine toward more open discussions of conditions that were once relegated to hushed tones. With a combination of clinical detail and an empathetic approach, Agnew sought to dismantle social stigmas and promote better patient care.

In this work, Agnew addresses diagnostic procedures, surgical and non-surgical interventions, and preventive measures, grounding his recommendations in observational data and case studies. He underscores the importance of cleanliness, proper diet, and careful post-operative attention, signaling an evolving perspective that placed patient comfort and recovery at the forefront. This was a marked departure from the more rudimentary and sometimes brutal methods that had prevailed in previous decades.

Agnew’s practical guidelines and forthright style paved the way for a greater acceptance of proctological research as a valid medical specialty. By advocating improved training for physicians and encouraging open dialogue with patients, he helped usher in a more enlightened era in the treatment of rectal diseases. Though his name is not always highlighted among the era’s leading medical pioneers, Agnew’s influence endures in the form of patient-centered care models and the destigmatization of conditions once deemed unmentionable. His work stands as a historical landmark, illuminating how changing social attitudes and clinical advancements can intersect to improve healthcare practices.