Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 19, 2026

Viability Assays for Cells in Culture
Published on: January 20, 2014
The definition of human viability: a historical perspective
1Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, A. Meyer Children Hospital, University of Florence, Florence, Italy. m.pignotti@meyer.it
Aim:
To investigate the current concepts related to the definition of human viability in a historical perspective.
Methods:
A review of the international literature was performed by using PubMed, Google, Embase to find definitions of Human Viability. The papers collected were divided chronologically.
Results:
Over the years, many authors have debated the concept of the limit of human viability, starting from Ballantyne in the early 1900. The definition differs from author to author.
Conclusion:
The definition of human viability is still under discussion. It depends primarily, but not only, on gestational age. A number of genetic, cultural, social and technological variables are also influential. This definition could have an impact on legislation and the widespread misunderstanding of this concept in the lay public could also be enhanced by a frank discussion among clinicians and other professionals.
Related Concept Videos
Requirements for Human Life
Oxygen
Atmospheric air is only about 20 percent oxygen, but that oxygen is a key component of the chemical reactions that keep the body alive, including the reactions that produce ATP. Brain cells are susceptible to a lack of oxygen because they require a...
Biodiversity and Human Values
Human Virome
What is Evolutionary History?
Humanistic Psychology
This approach...
Life Histories

