Xenotransplantation is the newly emerged medical term for the transplantation of tissues or organs of one species or genus to another. The driving force behind this avenue of science appears to be largely motivated by a shortage of donor human organs needed to replace diseased organs in humans. But animals are not ‘donors’.
Some medical research companies are finding alternatives to the outmoded techniques still being used in laboratories in the name of science today when millions of animals each year are sacrificed. We would hope such advanced reforms will come speedily…for the sake of all animals.
There have been many efforts over the last century to curb the wrongs and to address the issues in modern life and habits that involve animals.We cannot ignore the evidence of one of the most reputable groups that confirms the existence of very real cruelties and the very real situations that need to be corrected.
In the face of the trend in medical thinking, few in the public stop to question the principles that are now in vogue and have been happy to leave to others any discussion of a delicate point such as whether or not we are humane in the methods and treatment of laboratory animals.
Alternatives to animal testing range from cell and tissue cultures of human cell tests that promise accuracy in predicting toxicity in humans that are far superior to animal tests, to the latest sophisticated techniques using computerised models. Should we determine to give up animal sacrifice for the technological path, animals of the world rejoice!
There is a need for public knowledge of the millions of lives of animals sacrificed in the name of science. Those who conduct experiments must be accountable and reports of investigators interested in finding the facts indicate many of these acts inflicted on innocent animals are futile. Medical science, industry and commerce are involved and must make responsible correction. Animal welfare is a pointless banner to wave if we neglect the animal situation in laboratories around the world.
For much of the twentieth century since animals were first employed for medical experimentation there have been individuals and groups and associations objecting to this cruel and unethical abuse of animals. Many believe the methods are inhumane in the extreme. This makes the matter particularly evil in the light of the wonderful affection and service many species of animals have offered us in their long association with humans. Many doctors are voicing their concern for human health reasons an
In Australia the Bureau of Statistics quotes heart disease and strokes as predominant and lung cancer amongst the highest cause of cancer fatalities. Cancer currently retains its place in most western countries as the major cause of mortality resulting from errors in lifestyle, however, there are other conditions and causes of death that are increasingly indicating a need to focus additionally upon other issues.
We have a serious medical concern in western countries where the increase in mental depression is so great as to have been suggested as an ‘epidemic’ without a cure.
Depression is now one of the major symptoms for which doctors prescribe medical drugs in spite of serious known side effects that are sometimes worse than the original symptom .
Patients are not getting the promised results after taking prescribed medication from the range of drugs now commonly known as antidepressants. Not only are the benefits in question, but also the growing categories of ‘side effects’ that follow a course of these drugs. ‘Antidepressants’ – a misnomer – these drugs can cause depression.
