Analysis of Miss Evers’ Boys: Ethical Issues in the Tuskegee Study

Introduction

Miss Evers’ Boys is a thought-provoking film that sheds light on the infamous Tuskegee Study, a medical experiment conducted from 1932 to 1972 in which African American men with syphilis were left untreated for research purposes. This presentation will address ethical issues raised in the film and discuss the implications of the Tuskegee Study in the context of modern medical ethics.

1. Adherence to the Golden Rule: “Do No Harm”

In the Tuskegee Study, medical professionals involved in the experiment clearly deviated from the fundamental principle of “do no harm.” They knowingly allowed participants to suffer from untreated syphilis, leading to severe health consequences and even death. The evidence from the movie and supporting articles demonstrates:

• The medical professionals failed to provide proper treatment, even when it became available.
• Participants were misled and not fully informed about the nature of the study and its potential risks.
• Medical professionals prioritized their research objectives over the health and well-being of the participants.

2. Flaws in the Tuskegee Study Design

Had an Institutional Review Board (IRB) reviewed the Tuskegee Study’s design, several flaws would have been identified. Some potential flaws include:

• Lack of informed consent: Participants were not provided with accurate information about the study and its potential risks, violating the principle of informed consent.
• Withholding effective treatment: The study deliberately denied participants access to penicillin, a widely available and effective treatment for syphilis, resulting in unnecessary suffering.
• Lack of ongoing monitoring: The study lacked proper mechanisms for ongoing monitoring and evaluation to ensure participant safety and well-being.

3. Possibility of Ethical Violations in Future Studies

While the Tuskegee Study represents a grave ethical violation, significant changes in medical ethics and regulations make it less likely for a similar study to occur today. Evidence from the movie and supporting articles suggests:

• Stringent regulations and oversight: The establishment of IRBs and other regulatory bodies has increased scrutiny and oversight in medical research, ensuring that ethical standards are upheld.
• Ethical guidelines and principles: The development of ethical guidelines, such as the Belmont Report, emphasizes respect for autonomy, beneficence, and justice in research involving human subjects.
• Increased awareness and accountability: The Tuskegee Study’s revelation raised public awareness about research ethics, leading to increased scrutiny and accountability in medical research.

4. Social and Political Changes Preventing Repetition of Unethical Studies

Several social and political changes in American society have made it highly unlikely for a study like the Tuskegee Study to be published today without widespread criticism. These changes include:

• Civil rights movement: The advancement of civil rights and increased awareness of racial inequalities has led to greater scrutiny of unethical practices targeting marginalized communities.
• Patient advocacy and empowerment: Patients now have increased access to information, greater involvement in decision-making, and legal protections, reducing the likelihood of unethical experimentation.
• Transparency and accountability: The advent of technology, social media, and the internet has made it easier to expose unethical practices, leading to widespread criticism and public backlash against such studies.

Conclusion

Miss Evers’ Boys highlights the ethical violations and consequences of the Tuskegee Study, prompting reflection on medical ethics and the importance of adherence to fundamental principles. The film underscores the significance of informed consent, respect for autonomy, and the duty to prioritize patient well-being. While the Tuskegee Study represents a dark chapter in medical history, the subsequent establishment of regulations, ethical guidelines, and increased societal awareness make it unlikely for a similar study to occur today without severe criticism and consequences. It is essential to remember the lessons learned from this tragic event and remain vigilant in upholding ethical standards in medical research.