The Draize test--motivations for change.

The use of animals in research and testing is an issue of increasing public concern, with many people convinced that it is unjust to expose any sentient and unconsenting individual to suffering, or risk of suffering, when the only potential benefit would be to others. Such ethical considerations make the introduction of alternative forms of research and testing an urgent priority. In the case of the Draize eye irritancy test, however, scientific considerations superimpose ethical motivations for change, because the procedure is also unsatisfactory on scientific grounds. After concerted pressure from animal welfare groups throughout the world, several laboratories are now investigating humane and more scientific replacements for this test, with encouraging results. Some of the techniques being used have long been available, even before the introduction of the Draize test itself in 1944. This shows what could be achieved today, in other areas of animal testing, assuming the necessary imagination, motivation and resources. Focusing the scientific mind on alternative methodologies is expected not only to benefit science and the animals, but to protect the public more reliably as well.