Ethical Considerations of Human Investigation in Developing Countries: The AIDS Dilemma

Abstract

Problems associated with AIDS research in developing countries are reviewed in the context of four principles: autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, and justice. Applying the requirement of informed consent may present difficulties in cultures where personal choice is extremely limited, scientific concepts are alien, and illiteracy is widespread. In nonautonomous populations, risk-benefit analyses often place state interests above concern for the individual. The principle of justice mandates that research resources be allocated in a way that best benefits the country being studied. When external interests are served with little immediate benefit to the host country or individual subject, social and racial divisions between nations can become aggravated. (KIE abstract)