Is it a sin to analyze research samples from woman who have had abortions?

[D_Michaels]

Hello,
I am a research pathologist. A group of epidemiologists looking into the causes and prevention of breast cancer, is going to be taking breast samples from women who have just had elective abortions to assess the changes that occur during pregnancy. I think they will ask me to be involved in this study as the pathologist looking at the tissue. I feel very uncomfortable about this. I would have nothing to do with the actual abortion or the remains of the baby, just the mothers breast tissue. Nevertheless, it feels wrong to me. However, refusing could seriously damage me professionally. What is the Church’s position on this and how do you think I should best handle the situation?

Thank you very much, your (name removed by moderator)ut is very important to me.

D Michaels

 

[Fr.Vincent_Serpa]

Dear D,

It does not appear that your participation in the study displays your approval of the abortions of the woman being studied. I don’t see any reason for your not participating—especially when one considers that it is possible that the results of the study could show some detrimental effects of abortion.

Fr. Vincent Serpa, O.P.