The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks

Definition

The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks refers to the true story of Henrietta Lacks, an African American woman whose cells were taken without her knowledge in 1951 during treatment for cervical cancer. These cells, known as HeLa cells, became one of the most important tools in medicine, leading to groundbreaking advancements in science and research. This narrative highlights issues of ethics, race, and medical exploitation, particularly regarding the contributions of Black individuals to science and medicine.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Henrietta Lacks was diagnosed with cervical cancer at Johns Hopkins Hospital, where her cells were taken without consent during treatment.
2. HeLa cells were unique because they could replicate indefinitely, making them invaluable for research on cancer, virology, and genetics.
3. The story of Henrietta Lacks highlights significant ethical issues related to informed consent, especially for marginalized groups in medical history.
4. The publication of Rebecca Skloot's book brought attention to Henrietta's legacy and raised awareness about racial inequities in medical research.
5. HeLa cells have contributed to numerous medical breakthroughs, including the development of the polio vaccine, cancer treatments, and advancements in gene mapping.

Review Questions

• How did Henrietta Lacks' case illustrate the ethical dilemmas present in biomedical research?
  • Henrietta Lacks' case illustrated ethical dilemmas by highlighting how her cells were used for research without her knowledge or consent. This raises questions about patient rights and the need for informed consent in medical practices. Her story reflects broader issues of exploitation faced by marginalized communities in medical history, making it a crucial example for discussions on ethics in biomedical research.
• Discuss the impact that HeLa cells have had on contemporary medical practices and research.
  • HeLa cells have significantly impacted contemporary medical practices by providing a reliable source of human cells for a variety of experiments. They have played a vital role in developing vaccines, understanding cancer biology, and conducting genetic research. The widespread use of HeLa cells has also spurred discussions about the ethical implications surrounding cell use and ownership in research.
• Evaluate how the story of Henrietta Lacks has influenced perceptions of race and ethics in science today.
  • The story of Henrietta Lacks has profoundly influenced perceptions of race and ethics in science by exposing systemic inequities and the exploitation that marginalized groups often face. It serves as a catalyst for ongoing discussions about informed consent and ethical research practices, emphasizing the need for diversity and representation in clinical studies. This narrative has prompted institutions to re-evaluate their ethical standards and foster a more equitable approach to biomedical research.

Related terms

HeLa Cells: HeLa cells are the first immortal human cell line and are derived from the cervical cancer cells of Henrietta Lacks, used extensively in medical research.

Ethical Medical Practices: Ethical medical practices refer to the moral principles guiding research and treatment in medicine, particularly concerning consent and the treatment of patients.

Biomedical Research: Biomedical research is a field of study that focuses on understanding health and disease through laboratory experiments, clinical trials, and technological advancements.