Adult stem cell research acceptable

I COMMEND the Irish Catholic Bishops for condemning the decision of the European Union to approve tax spending on embryonic stem-cell research.

Genetic science has great potential for either serving or degrading humanity. Its proper use requires moral reflection and the establishment of moral limits.

There is no scientific evidence to suggest embryonic stem cell research has more potential to lead us to viable treatments for various diseases than non-embryonic stem cells.

Embryonic stem cells carry the likelihood of immune rejection in humans. Animal trials suggest they are too genetically unstable and too likely to form lethal tumours to be used for treatment.

Tests using human adult stem cells, however, have produced significant and encouraging results in the areas of Parkinson’s disease, spinal cord injury, cardiovascular disease, sickle-cell anaemia, and other conditions without posing any moral problem.

On a biological level the pre-natal being is unlike any other tissue: it is human with its own DNA — it has the same right to life as any human being.

We must help those who are suffering, but we may not use a good end to justify an evil means. Hence, the cry should be not for an increase in funding for embryonic stem cells, but rather an expansion of adult stem cell research.

Paul Kokoski

234 Columbia Drive

Hamilton, Ontario

Canada L9C 3Y9