Question

A 12 year old child has undergone several unsuccessful treatment regimes for cancer over a period of years. The parents heard of a new research option for treatment that could possibly prolong the child's life for several months up to a year. As a result they have requested this treatment. The child's specialist physicians do not believe the procedure will benefit the child significantly and may in fact have debilitating results on the child's health. Is it ethical for the child to undergo this therapy? Choose a position on this issue and argue using Consequentialism. Be specific in the consequences outlined. Remember, saying something like " the good consequences outweigh the bad" will not earn points. What good consequences? What bad ones.... You must provide back up your argument.

Answer 1

I think it will debilite child's health. In history stated that patient undergone several unsuccessful treatments the parents may have overimagine things with less knowledge regarding treatment section. All the oncologic modalities have significant side effects so the parents have to understand before planning the treatment. The healthcare team should ensure that emotional condition of parents and plan according to that and health education should given to parents.