Chester M. Southam
American oncologist and virologist
Chester M. Southam
| Born | October 4, 1919 |
|---|---|
| Birth place | Mars Hill, Maine, United States |
| Died | April 5, 2002 |
| Place of death | New York City, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Known for | Cancer research, Human experimentation |
Chester M. Southam (October 4, 1919 – April 5, 2002) was an American oncologist and virologist known for his controversial research in cancer and human experimentation. He conducted pioneering work in the field of oncology and made significant contributions to the understanding of cancer and its treatment.
Early Life and Education[edit | edit source]
Chester M. Southam was born on October 4, 1919, in Mars Hill, Maine. He attended the University of Michigan, where he earned his medical degree.
Career[edit | edit source]
Southam began his career at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City, where he conducted much of his notable research. He later joined the faculty at the New York University School of Medicine.
Research and Controversies[edit | edit source]
Southam is perhaps best known for his research involving the injection of live cancer cells into human subjects. His experiments aimed to understand the body's immune response to cancer. However, his methods raised significant ethical concerns, particularly regarding informed consent and the use of prisoners and hospital patients as subjects without their full knowledge.
In the 1960s, Southam's practices came under scrutiny, leading to a landmark case in medical ethics. The New York State Board of Regents investigated his work, resulting in a temporary suspension of his medical license. This case highlighted the need for stricter ethical standards in medical research and contributed to the development of modern informed consent protocols.
Legacy[edit | edit source]
Despite the controversies, Southam's work contributed to the advancement of cancer research and the understanding of the immune system's role in fighting cancer. His career serves as a reminder of the ethical responsibilities inherent in medical research.
Death[edit | edit source]
Chester M. Southam passed away on April 5, 2002, in New York City.
See Also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
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