The right to be forgotten for cancer patients: a moral issue of justice

Main Article Content

Rosagemma Ciliberti
Francesca Depaoli
Elena Dati

Keywords

cancer survivors, right to be forgotten, right to oblivion

Abstract


Cancer is a major cause of mortality worldwide, but therapeutic advancements have significantly increased the chances of recovery. However, cancer survivors often experience multidimensional frailty along with persistent social stigmatization. In this context, the right to be forgotten  (RTBF) for cancer patients, as an essential protection against discrimination based on medical history, is an emerging and crucial issue in public health and bioethics. This article examines the ethical, social, and legal implications of the RTBF for cancer survivors, exploring the need for uniform regulations and the importance of social recognition of recovery. Through a literature review and critical analysis, the Authors propose guidelines for the implementation of policies that ensure full respect and operability of the ethical principles of equity, autonomy, and dignity for cancer patients.


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