Euthanasia: Are we ready for it, or is it too late?

Abstract

Euthanasia, also known as assisted suicide, is the act of intentionally ending the life of a person suffering from a terminal illness or incurable condition. The word "euthanasia" comes from the Greek words "eu," meaning "good," and "thanatos," meaning "death."¹ Passive euthanasia entails the withholding treatment necessary for the continuance of life. Active euthanasia entails the use of lethal substances or forces (such as administering a lethal injection), and is more controversial. Euthanasia is a highly sensitive issue under scrutiny from medical, ethical, religious, cultural and socio-economic viewpoints.