New DNA Study Reveals Malaria Likely Killed Young Pharaoh Tutankhamun
The mystery surrounding the death of Egypt's boy king, Tutankhamun, has puzzled historians and scientists for generations. Now, a new DNA analysis conducted by Cairo University’s Faculty of Medicine, in collaboration with German genetic experts, is shedding fresh light on his untimely demise at the age of 18.
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| Image Credit: Wikimedia |
The study suggests that the young pharaoh's early demise may have been mainly caused by several malarial infections. Instead of pointing to accidents or foul play, these findings show how disease and inherited conditions affected even Egypt's most powerful families.
The Role of Malaria in Tutankhamun’s Death
Tutankhamun, who ruled during the 18th dynasty for just nine years, has captivated the world since the near-perfect discovery of his tomb in 1922. While many suspected assassination or fatal injuries from a chariot crash, the new DNA evidence suggests a quieter, more tragic cause—malaria.
Tim Batty, General Director of the Tutankhamun exhibition, confirmed:
The tests show that Tutankhamun had been infected with malaria, which may have killed him.
This conclusion points to a series of malaria infections rather than one sudden illness, suggesting a long-term battle with a disease that was common—and deadly—in ancient Egypt due to its warm climate and standing waters, ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
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Genetic Clues About the Pharaoh's Health and Family
Beyond revealing the role of malaria, the DNA tests also offered a rare insight into Tutankhamun’s genetic background. Researchers uncovered signs of inherited health conditions that may have affected both him and his family. These include genetic disorders and weaknesses that could have made him more vulnerable to disease.
Batty added,
In addition to genetic information on Tut’s family connections, the DNA tests have revealed further information such as diseases and inherited problems that may have afflicted Tutankhamun.
This genetic vulnerability likely worsened the effects of malaria and other infections, painting a fuller picture of the young king’s health struggles and the medical challenges of royal life in ancient Egypt.
Clues from the Tomb: Canes and a Healing Pharmacy
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| King Tutankhamun Tomb / Image Credit: Pexels |
Artifacts within Tutankhamun’s tomb provide additional support to the DNA findings. Over 130 walking canes and medical supplies were buried with him, which were previously believed to be symbolic or ceremonial. However, in light of the new research, these items suggest he may have had real physical impairments.
Experts explained,
Walking impairment and malarial disease sustained by Tutankhamun are supported by the discovery of canes and an afterlife pharmacy in his tomb.
This collection of medicinal objects—referred to as a "pharmacy for the afterlife"—likely reflects the ongoing care and treatment he received while alive. The presence of so many walking sticks could indicate difficulty walking, possibly linked to bone disease or complications from repeated illness.
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Rethinking the Life and Legacy of Tutankhamun
These findings of the boy king, reminding us that beneath the gold mask was a young man who likely struggled with serious health issues. His short life, filled with physical hardship, also reflects the limited medical knowledge of the time—even for royalty.
While the grandeur of Tutankhamun’s tomb has made him a symbol of Egypt’s golden age, this new research reveals a more intimate and vulnerable side of the pharaoh. His legacy now includes not just the riches of his burial chamber, but also a better understanding of the medical realities of ancient Egypt.
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