China's latest version of the criteria for judging brain death
of adults and related technique specifications has been approved by
experts recently. Though brain death has not become a regular
standard for confirming death, obviously China has made a great
step forward in the legalization of brain death.
"The biggest obstacle for the legalization of brain death in
China is the misunderstanding of the general public and the chaotic
managing of many hospitals," said Chen Zhonghua, a medical
expert.
Actually, many Chinese still won't accept it when doctors
announce the brain death of their family members, who still have
breath and heart beat.
"It will take very long time to legalize brain death, at least
several years," said Sun Lidong, a law professor from Peking
University. Besides, there must also be a strict regulation
governing brain death judgment by doctors and hospitals.
Currently, more than 30 countries and regions worldwide have
legalized brain death, and another 80-plus ones have accepted
related standards.
(Chinanews?October 9, 2007)