May 11, 2001

Human-Subjects Report Draws Criticism

By RON SOUTHWICK

The National Bioethics Advisory Commission released a report last week spelling out ethical guidelines for researchers who use human subjects in developing countries. But patients' advocates say the report leaves room for researchers to exploit residents in poor countries, while scientists say the guidelines are impractical.

The report comes as more researchers are doing studies in developing countries. The commission, which advises the president, "identified principles that ought to