RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 The ethics of betel nut consumption in Taiwan JF Journal of Medical Ethics JO J Med Ethics FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd and Institute of Medical Ethics SP 739 OP 740 DO 10.1136/medethics-2016-103990 VO 43 IS 11 A1 Joseph Tham A1 Geoffrey Sem A1 Eugene Sit A1 Michael Cheng-tek Tai YR 2017 UL http://jme.bmj.com/content/43/11/739.abstract AB The ethics of betel nut use in Taiwan are examined in this article. It first presents scientific facts about the betel quid, its consumption and negative health consequences and then analyses the cultural background and economic factors contributing to its popularity in Asia. Governmental and institutional attempts to curb betel nut cultivation, distribution and sales are also described. Finally, the bioethical implications of this often ignored subject are considered.