I find the genetics behind disease onset very interesting and this article certainly presents many of the great benefits that can be uncovered with a greater understanding of genes. The general premise is that there is an aging gene, IGF-1, that allows people to age. People with Laron syndrome don't have this gene, which accounts for their lack of growth when they reach puberty. That certain aging processes (loss of telomeres, etc.) are linked with cancerous growths hints at the potential of this study.
Research into these microbiological processes has the potential to prolong a great deal of lives as cancer and diabetes contributes to a large amount of deaths each year. Further research should be encouraged. However, the article hints that while there may be a cure for cancer and diabetes on the way, the overall death rates for these Ecuadorian villagers still remained high due to alcoholism and various accidents. This goes to show the importance of encouraging other healthy habits even if the main afflictions to the population are cured. So while the focus should be fixed on cancer and diabetes, which are extremely inhibitive diseases and a threat to human health, other causes of early death should not be forgotten. That alcoholism and obesity were cited in the article as being prevalent in the village, suggests that while this gene may be influential in preventing the onset of diabetes and cancer healthy habits are lacking.
Finally, the article also cites a lack of transparency among pharmaceutical companies in their development of drugs. While the village was used as a major data source in the development of IGF-1 drugs by the drug companies, the villagers own needs for the drug was ignored. I feel this goes to show the greed displayed by many drug companies in placing a certain profit margin ahead of various needs. The irony of the situation only serves to compound the dismay. But hopefully further studies into aging processes can help lessen the severe impact of cancer and other age-related diseases.
This article seems to cover another sad example in which drug companies have exploited people for their own benefit and given them no recognition or offered any help. After these people gave their time and personal information to benefit the drug company, they were not even offered access to drugs that they need. This sad example illustrates the global need for a push to give all people equal access to the right to health. Drug companies need to be help accountable for upholding basic human dignity standards.
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