Why Is Henrietta Lacks Unethical

The ethical issue presented is the story of Henrietta Lacks, or more aptly, the use of her cells. Mrs Lacks was born in 1920 and grew up as a poor, uneducated woman. Around 1951, at the age of 31, she passed away due to cervical cancer. Before she died however, doctors at the Baltimore hospital where she was treated, removed some of her tumour cells. These cells were soon discovered to be unique, as they could thrive in laboratory conditions, something which was never seen before in human cells. Soon after, these cells were sent around the globe to be used in various research and experimental initiatives, something which Mrs Lacks did not consent to. After over 60 years of the cells being used, the Lacks family finally found out about it the situation (when scientists contacted her Mrs Lacks family to ask for blood samples) and various arguments ensued. Over the years, many organisations debated for, and against the use of her cells and is still a topic of much controversy. Also, the Lacks family want some sort of compensation for this whole debacle.
Analysis:
The two affected parties in this case would be the Lacks family and the scientists involved in researching and studying Henrietta Lacks
They went through the right channels when trying to pursue their goals of inhibiting the use of these cells. The scientists could have shown more courtesy before using the information regarding these cells. They could have notified the family especially since the last incident occurred only a few years ago. Both parties recently settled on an agreement whereby the data involved with HeLa cell research would be stored on a database in which scientists who want to use this, need apply for a permit to access this and should have to submit annual reports to back their research. Also, two Lacks family members would sit on the board of the controlling