Henrietta Lacks & Informed Consent
The story of Henrietta Lacks remains one of the most significant ethical breaches in medical history, yet it’s also a turning point in understanding the critical role of informed consent. In 1951, cells were taken from Henrietta without her knowledge or permission during treatment for cervical cancer. Those cells, now known as HeLa cells, became one of the most important tools in medical research, contributing to advancements like the polio vaccine, cancer treatments, and gene mapping.
However, Henrietta and her family were never informed, nor did they benefit from the countless discoveries made using her cells. Her case sheds light on how vulnerable communities, especially Black Americans, have been exploited by the medical system. It highlights the need for a healthcare framework rooted in transparency, trust, and respect for every patient’s autonomy and rights.
Informed consent is not just a formality or a signature on paper—it is an ethical obligation that ensures patients understand their treatment options, the risks, and what happens to their bodies. Patients, like Henrietta, should have the final say in their care, with full knowledge and understanding of how their bodies or biological materials are being used.
Today, Henrietta’s legacy is a powerful reminder of the importance of respecting patient autonomy, especially in marginalized communities that have historically been denied it. We must continue advocating for informed consent in all areas of healthcare, ensuring that patients are empowered to make decisions that honor their dignity and well-being.
Let’s push for a healthcare system that truly respects patients’ rights and ensures that no one is ever treated without their full understanding and agreement—just as Henrietta Lacks deserved.
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