Translation of medical terms from an ethical perspective

Abstract This paper explores medical terminology translation from an ethical perspective, focusing on the Chinese translation of “Alzheimer’s disease.” Historically translated as both “ 老年痴呆症 ” and “ 阿尔茨海默病 ”, the latter is now more commonly used. The study examines the intersection of medical and translation ethics, emphasizing the balance between scientific accuracy and humanitarian concern. By tracing the term’s development in China, it reveals the complex context of terminology translation. Drawing on ethical theories, the paper highlights the need for accuracy, standardization, and ethical responsibility toward patients. It argues that medical translation goes beyond language conversion to include ethical sensitivity and respect for patient dignity. Ultimately, medical translation should prioritize precision while embracing ethical considerations to promote a humanistic spirit in healthcare communication.