Ethical Issues in Reproductive Medicine in Japan
Author Information
Author(s): Mayeda Mayumi
Primary Institution: The University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine
Hypothesis
How do court cases in Japan address the determination of parental status in assisted reproductive technology (ART)?
Conclusion
The lack of a legal framework for ART in Japan is likely to lead to increasing contradictions between outdated legal precedents and modern ART practices.
Supporting Evidence
- Approximately 284,000 patients are undergoing fertility treatment in Japan.
- Public attitudes toward ART are generally positive despite a cautious stance from government and academic societies.
- Judicial decisions have emphasized the act of parturition and consent in determining parental status.
Takeaway
This study looks at how Japanese courts decide who is a parent when babies are born using medical help, and it finds that the rules are outdated and need to change.
Methodology
The study involved a thorough investigation of court cases related to ART in Japan, reviewing arguments and judgments, and summarizing public attitudes through surveys.
Limitations
The study is limited by the small number of court cases concerning ART in Japan and the ongoing nature of some legal proceedings.
Participant Demographics
The study surveyed approximately 8,000 individuals aged 20 to 79 years.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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