Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Services, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
Jenkins, T., Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Services, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
Blood transfusion has become an essential component of modern medical practice. However, worldwide epidemics of viral diseases - in particular, HIV/AIDS - have made the practice of blood transfusion therapy hazardous, motivating scientists to devise techniques and strategies to ensure the supply of safe blood and blood components for clinical use. The challenges are particularly great in sub-Saharan Africa, where clinicians have become so accustomed to using blood transfusion that it may be difficult for them to reduce their dependence on it. A number of ethical issues raised by the practice of blood transfusion in medicine are raised and discussed.
blood substitute; acquired immune deficiency syndrome; article; blood analysis; blood donor; blood transfusion; health care policy; history of medicine; human; Human immunodeficiency virus infection; informed consent; medical ethics; medical practice; needs assessment; patient safety; population research; professional secrecy; public health; resource allocation; risk assessment; South Africa; virus infection; virus transmission; Blood Substitutes; Blood Transfusion; HIV Infections; Humans; Informed Consent; Privacy; Resource Allocation; South Africa