Medical Ethics Advisor – June 1, 2003
June 1, 2003
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SARS: Balancing public safety and individual freedom is a challenge
If there was anyone left in doubt, the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) epidemic has put the question to rest. Infectious diseases are back as a major threat to human health, say world public health officials, even among industrialized nations that once believed they were safe from harm. -
Patent fights loom over SARS genes, care options
No sooner had public health officials lauded the international scientific cooperation that led to the discovery of a new Coronavirus as the cause of the highly contagious and deadly severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), than scientists from the different communities lined up to ensure they wouldnt be left out in the cold when it comes time to profit from their discoveries. -
Questioning the search for a Viagra for women
Following the phenomenal success of the drug sildenafil (Viagra) in treating sexual dysfunction in men, pharmaceutical companies have recently focused intense interest and research funding toward finding a comparable drug that will offer the same benefits to women. -
Simulated scenarios test, train ethics consultants
Though some erudite veterans may tell you differently, good ethics consultants are made not born. -
Partial-birth abortion ban expected to pass
In a matter of weeks, the U.S. Congress is expected to enact a federal ban on a pregnancy termination procedure known as partial-birth abortion. President Bush has indicated he will sign the bill into law.