Daily Current Affairs : 23-March-2024
Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) is a set of medical tactics designed to assist human beings going through infertility problems. These techniques are important for couples who want to have children but are unable to conceive naturally. The most common ART procedure is In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), where eggs are fertilized by sperm outside the body.
What is ART?
ART consists of several distinct methods, which include:
- In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): Fertilizing eggs with sperm in a lab.
- Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): Injecting a single sperm directly into an egg.
- Cryopreservation: Freezing eggs, sperm, or embryos for future use.
- Fertility Medications: Drugs used to stimulate ovulation.
The Current Situation in Punjab
Recently, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has raised concerns about the IVF treatments being provided to older women in Punjab. There are allegations that these practices are violating the Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Act, 2021. This regulation was created to ensure that ART processes are conducted safely and ethically.
Key Concerns
The ministry’s request for a report highlights several important issues:
- Age Limitations: The Act specifies age limits for women undergoing IVF to protect their health and ensure the safety of both mother and child.
- Health Risks: Older women may face higher health risks during pregnancy, which can endanger both their lives and the lives of their babies.
- Ethical Considerations: There are ethical concerns about the rights of older women to access these technologies versus the potential risks involved.
Important Points:
Definition of ART: Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) includes medical procedures to address infertility.
Common ART Methods:
- In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
- Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)
- Cryopreservation of eggs, sperm, or embryos
- Fertility medications
Concerns Raised: The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has questioned IVF treatments for older women in Punjab.
Legal Framework: Allegations of violations of the Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Act, 2021.
Key Issues:
- Age Limitations: Regulations exist to protect the health of mothers and infants.
- Health Risks: Increased risks for older women during pregnancy.
- Ethical Considerations: Balancing access to IVF with potential health risks.
Why In News
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has requested a report from the Punjab government regarding the in-vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment of aged women, citing concerns that these practices may be violating the Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Act, 2021, which aims to safeguard the health and rights of patients. This inquiry underscores the importance of adhering to established regulations in reproductive healthcare.
MCQs about Navigating IVF Regulations for Aged Women
-
What does Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) primarily address?
A. Heart disease
B. Infertility
C. Cancer treatment
D. Diabetes management
-
Which of the following is a common method used in ART?
A. Blood transfusion
B. In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
C. Chemotherapy
D. Physical therapy
-
What has the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare raised concerns about in Punjab?
A. Overpopulation
B. Lack of hospitals
C. IVF treatments for older women
D. High costs of medication
-
Why are age limitations specified in the Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Act, 2021?
A. To increase the number of patients
B. To protect the health of mothers and infants
C. To reduce the cost of treatments
D. To encourage younger couples
Boost up your confidence by appearing our Weekly Current Affairs Multiple Choice Questions
