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Henrietta's cells were used in countless experiments without her consent from "summary" of The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot
Henrietta Lacks never knew that her cells were taken from her body and used in scientific experiments. She was never asked for consent, never informed about what was happening. Her cells were just taken, without her knowledge or permission. The doctors who took them never thought to explain to her what they were doing or why. They simply saw an opportunity for research and took it, without considering the rights or wishes of the person whose cells they were taking. Henrietta's cells were used in countless experiments over the years, becoming the foundation for countless medical breakthroughs. These experiments led to the development of vaccines, cancer treatments, and a myriad of other medical advancements. Henrietta's cells were instrumental in the field of cell biology, helping scientists understand how cells function and how diseases develop. Her cells were so unique and resilient that they kept multiplying and dividing long after her death, providing researchers with an endless supply of material to work with. The story of Henrietta's cells raises important ethical questions about consent and the rights of individuals. It highlights the ways in which marginalized communities have been exploited for the benefit of scientific research. Henrietta's story also sheds light on the lack of regulations and oversight in the medical field, allowing researchers to use cells without obtaining proper consent. The legacy of Henrietta's cells continues to this day, with her cells still being used in research around the world. While her cells have contributed to countless scientific discoveries, the fact remains that Henrietta herself was never given a choice in the matter. Her cells were taken from her without her consent, and she was never able to benefit from the medical advancements that were made possible by her cells. Henrietta's story serves as a reminder of the importance of informed consent and the need to respect the rights and autonomy of individuals, even in the pursuit of scientific progress.
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