Controversy in Stem Cell ResearchThe potential of embryonic stem cells in treating a number of deadly diseases is immense. However research efforts in this sphere have been hampered by moral and ethical issues. Controversy in stem cell research is nothing new. The so-called pro-lifers are against harvesting stem cells from embryos, arguing that precious lives are being sacrificed in the name of science. You must be aware that all stem cell research is not controversial. Adult stem cells are being harvested from a variety of sources and do not involve the creation and destruction of embryos in the laboratory. There is no moral or ethical debate in such research simply because human adult stem cells can be harvested from the individual requiring the specific stem cell treatment. However research efforts directed specifically at human embryonic stem cells do require the creation and destruction of 5 to 7-day-old embryos. Researchers insist this is necessary since embryonic stem cells have shown massive promise in treating diabetes, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries and Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. Opponents of this procedure contend that such methods devalue the worth of human life and are against the principles of natural justice. The pro-life movement, which strives for the protection of pre-born human life, is against all forms of embryonic stem cell research. Pro-lifers also argue that by sacrificing embryos, researchers are committing murder. Researchers have been trying to overcome these objections by using those embryos which were not used in vitro fertility treatments. This practice appears to be a workable alternative since most of these embryos are destroyed over a long-period of time and lose their viability if stored indefinitely. However former US President George W Bush was not an advocate of stem cell research using human embryos and enacted policies that severely restricted the use of even those embryos, which were ultimately destroyed in IVF clinics. Such policies were fiercely opposed by scientists. The issue became hotly debated and emotions aroused on either side appear to have clouded the main issue.A calm survey of the available data will show that more embryos are destroyed in IVF clinics than ever would be in stem cell research labs. So why is there such a huge controversy in stem cell research and not in IVF clinics where embryos are discarded almost on a daily basis? The above statement is food for thought for our lawmakers. They need to frame wiser policies that avoid controversy in human embryonic stem cell research and look at the larger picture - that of the benefits arising from such research not only for a few isolated individuals, but for mankind as a whole.
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