Animal Research
Animal testing has contributed to helping find cures for breast cancer, tuberculosis, and to develop the pacemaker. Several animals are used for testing because they are more comparable to humans; Mice are 98% similar to humans and Chimpanzees are 99% similar to the DNA of humans. Both humans and animals both share some of the same illnesses like; cancer and diabetes. Many health products and make-up products have been tested by use of animals and approved by the FDA. Animals have no choice in the decision of being used for research projects, but the Bible does tell us that human’s dominion over animals.

My opinion was not affected by this research assignment, but I did learn a lot of details pertaining to testing animals. It was interesting to learn that until PETA hired Jessica Sandler, animals were treated very cruel. Animals were forced to digest or injected with harmful toxins like gasoline and mercury. The animals suffered extremely from these toxic chemicals. The animal advocacy protesters of today would have had a field day protesting and attempting to prosecute for these cruel acts to animals.

I feel that research for animals may be necessary for certain circumstances, like: testing of dogs has helped develop insulin to help diabetic patients. Animal testing has been essential to saving the lives of other animals from dying from rabies. Researchers have used mice for long-term research for cures for cancer.

Magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is an advanced testing procedure that assists in diagnosing diseases of the brain. This test consists of magnetic and radio waves within the body that show different changes in the blood flow throughout the brain. Yes, I do think that as this process advances, animal testing may become obsolete. The animal advocates would be pleased with this decision. My only concern is that if these procedures will be covering the insurance plans and if there may be a challenge with indigent patients.
There are several types of images available for diagnosing brain complications.
• fMRI – (Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging) blood flow and oxygen levels measuring
• CT – (Computed Tomography) scanning of the brain
• PET (Position Emission Tomography) – measures radioactivity in