legacy of Henrietta Lacks

Henrietta Lacks was an African American woman whose cancer cells were taken without her permission in 1951. These cells, called HeLa cells, became the first successful human cell line grown in labs worldwide. They’ve helped develop vaccines, cancer treatments, and understand diseases, saving countless lives. Her story highlights important issues about ethics and consent in medical research, inspiring ongoing conversations about patients' rights and racial disparities. Henrietta’s legacy continues to influence medicine and ethics, emphasizing the importance of respecting individuals in scientific advancement.