With the invention of Computerized Tomography or CT Scan and its subsequent developments in the form of MRI, Ultrasounds, PET scan, etc, a deeper probe into the human body to diagnose problems was made possible. It is believed that the rapid improvements in resolutions of these scans will soon be able to identify the smallest aberrant cell or neural process. The use of CAT scan and MRI in routine diagnostics to identify cancers and brain clots has the beneficial effect of extending longevity of the human race. Specialized prenatal scans have been evolved for screening genetic abnormalities overall, reducing morbidity and psychological trauma in the family.
While it may be argued that the quality of life in the 21st century has deteriorated due to poor environmental conditions, long working hours, stress, poor eating habits, and quality of food, there is no doubt that global demography stands altered and includes an increasingly larger population in the geriatric stage (greater than 65 years of age), extended life stage (>90 yrs), and centennials living past 100 years. However, while many deaths are routinely averted and fatal illnesses prevented due to medical scans, the preferential termination of female fetuses raises many ethical issues in medicine that cannot be ignored. While scanning technologies may prevent disabilities and extend life span, the attitude towards the unborn girl child and elderly parents needs to be addressed at the psychological and social dimensions. The belief that doctors and the medical system directly benefit from the scans more than the scans benefit the patients, is deep-rooted and needs to be addressed. |
