Novartis Settles Lawsuit With Henrietta Lacks' Family Over Cell Use

In Brief

Novartis settled a lawsuit with Henrietta Lacks' estate over use of her cells taken without consent in 1951.

Key Facts

• Novartis settled a lawsuit brought by Henrietta Lacks' estate regarding the use of her cells, according to multiple reports.
• Henrietta Lacks' cells were taken from her tumor in 1951 without her knowledge or consent, as reported by sources.
• The cells taken from Lacks have been used in medical research, including in the development of the polio vaccine, according to The Independent.
• The lawsuit alleged that Novartis profited from the cells without compensating Lacks' family, according to the New York Times.
• Novartis is reported to be the second pharmaceutical company to settle a lawsuit with Lacks' family over the use of her cells, according to BBC News.

What Happened

Novartis reached a settlement with the estate of Henrietta Lacks, whose cells were taken without her consent in 1951, according to reports. The lawsuit alleged that Novartis profited from the cells, which have been widely used in medical research. This settlement follows a previous lawsuit settled by another drug company, according to BBC News.

Why It Matters

The case raises questions about consent and compensation in biomedical research, as reported by multiple sources. It highlights ongoing discussions about the use of biological materials obtained historically and the rights of patients and their families in medical research.