Double Standards in Medical Research in Developing Countries

This book examines the ethical controversies that have surrounded the design and conduct of international medical research sponsored by industrialized countries or industry, and carried out in developing countries. The chief concern is that research subjects in developing countries may be exploited because sponsors of research employ double standards. One debate focuses on whether the standard of care provided to subjects of medical research in developing countries should be the same as what research subjects receive in North America and Europe. Other concerns are whether the process of obtaining informed consent in developing countries is adequate, and whether prior ethical review of research meets standards that are well established in the industrialized world. Recent international developments show that essential medications can be made affordable and accessible to developing countries, and that double standards need not prevail.

• Presents a detailed account of both sides of recent controversies in international medical research
• As a member of a committee that revised international ethical guidelines for medical research, the author gives a behind-the-scenes account of the views of many commentators on the guidelines
• Describes episodes of unethical research sponsored by the pharmaceutical industry and analyses which of these constitute exploitation of research students in developing countries