Question

1. look at the table on the page and answer the following questions: a. in 1951, were there rules about informed consent? b. in 1951, did doctors ask patients before using their cells for research? c. in 1951, could a patient see a copy of their medical records? d. what has changed since 1951? i. ii. iii. write a letter to henrietta lacks and let her know: a) the importance of her contribution to science b) the bioethical issues around her case c) the progress that has been made since her time.

Explanation:

a. In 1951, there were no formal rules about informed - consent in medical research as we know them today.
b. In 1951, doctors generally did not ask patients before using their cells for research, as seen in Henrietta Lacks' case.
c. In 1951, patients typically could not see a copy of their medical records easily.
d. Since 1951, there have been major changes in informed - consent laws, patient rights regarding medical records access, and ethical standards in medical research.
For the letter:
a) Henrietta Lacks' cells (HeLa cells) have been crucial for countless medical and scientific advancements, including vaccine development, cancer research, and understanding cell biology.
b) The bioethical issues in her case include lack of informed consent, privacy violations as her cells were used without her knowledge, and the exploitation of a vulnerable patient.
c) Since her time, there have been strict informed - consent laws, more emphasis on patient privacy, and a greater understanding of the importance of ethical research practices.

Answer:

a. No
b. No
c. No
d. i. Informed - consent laws have been established.
ii. Patients have more rights to access medical records.
iii. Ethical standards in medical research have improved.
Letter:
a) Your cells, the HeLa cells, have been instrumental in numerous scientific breakthroughs like vaccine development and cancer research, greatly advancing our understanding of biology and medicine.
b) The main bioethical issues were the lack of your informed consent when doctors took and used your cells for research, and the violation of your privacy.
c) Since your time, there are now strict informed - consent regulations, stronger patient privacy protection, and a more ethical approach to medical research.