The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks

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70,334.82

An exploration of the story behind the HeLa cells, the woman they came from, and the ethical issues surrounding medical research and consent.

Description

The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot uncovers the story of Henrietta Lacks, an African American woman whose cancer cells were taken without her consent in 1951. These cells, known as HeLa, became instrumental in numerous medical breakthroughs, including the development of the polio vaccine and advances in cancer research. The book delves into the ethical implications of using human tissues in research, the impact on Lacks’s family, and the intersection of science, ethics, and human rights, prompting readers to reflect on the legacy of medical practices and informed consent.