Harvard University Polio Vaccine Development Essay

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I’m working on a health & medical writing question and need guidance to help me learn.

Review the article and lecture titled, High school students learn the fascinating story of Henrietta Lacks, on the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory website from June of 2014.  This will provide background to the development of HeLa cells from Henrietta Lacks, used in many polio vaccines studies and other scientific research.  Be sure to consider the role gender and race played in her lived experience and this event. There are many scientific, ethical, legal, and family issues surrounding the story of Henrietta Lacks and her HeLa cells.

  • Consider how this information relates to public health management for disease prevention and eradication.
  • Explain your reaction to the information presented in Dr. Spector’s presentation.
  • Decide if the end justifies the means in this situation.
  • Highlight the similarities this case may have with The Tuskegee Syphilis Experiment.