Xenotransplantation And Animal Cruelty

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Scientists must recognize pigs are a primary resource for xenotransplants because a large supply of pigs can be grown under standardized conditions. Pigs are efficient to harvest because “their early sexual maturation and frequent large litters” allow them to produce “a significant number animals” (Slasman, 2003). The rapid breeding of pigs provides doctors with a large selection of pigs to choose from when a patient needs an organ or tissue. Doctors can choose a pig suitable for their patient or coordinate procedures. For instance, if one patient needs a skin graft, while another patient needs a heart, the pig can be harvested to serve multiple purposes. This protocol will ensure the pig's body is used to its maximum potential. In addition …show more content…

Ethical implications of genetically modifying, breeding, and killing pigs with the purpose of transplanting organs and tissues to benefit humans is questioned. Fox (1996) proposed a moral question regarding ethical concerns, “how do we morally balance animal suffering and human benefit because their genetic makeup and behavior is close to humans?”. Additionally, critics believe pigs do not have the ability to oppose being genetically modified and sacrificing their life to save a human’s is morally wrong. Because of ethical concerns, many believe xenotransplantation is animal cruelty. However, these animals have great potential in curing diseases and saving lives. This leaves people questioning what is more unethical, using pigs to save lives or allowing people to die. After consulting with countless doctors, Beschorner (2013) states “pig organs in particular offer a variety of advantages”. Pigs could potentially cure the organ shortage because the abundance of healthy and sanitary organs that are available for transplantation. The pigs used for these procedures will be used to their full potential. Also, the doctors can choose a pig that is the most suitable for their patient. In addition, the genetic modifications of pigs creates new opportunities such as curing rejection, curing diseases, and creating perfect pigs to save lives. Therefore, pigs should be used for xenotransplantation because pigs cure severe medical conditions and can save countless human

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