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The majority of Americans support federal funding of embryonic stem cell research.
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Maybe so, but did the survey also ask how many Amercans actually understand what stem cell research entails? Most probably are not aware of the details.
Also, perhaps now researchers are only using "leftover" embryos from invitro fertilization, but will this practice continue once these "miracle cures" are developed??? Highly unlikely. If researchers are able to find cures for dibetes & arthritis via stem cells, you can bet the pharmaceutical industry will be all over this, with dollar signs gleaming in their eyes. They are going to want to produce a LOT of these medications, which will take a LOT of embryos. Eventually, the supply of "leftover" embryos won't be sufficient, and they will need to produce more- thus you will have the "farming" of embryos.
This may sound horrible & far-fetched, but I would hope no one is under the impression that drug companies develop & market new medications because they are "concerned" about the ill or for any other altruistic reasons. They are willing to spend millions to make billions. Have you ever seen the price of interferon injections for rheumatoid arthritis??? Over $1,000 for 4 injections (a 1 month supply)!!! Do you know how much money is made off of prescription medications for diabetes alone? It is mind boggling.
Bottom line: As an RN, I would like nothing more than to be able to cure my patients of their ailments, but the line needs to be drawn somewhere. I took an oath to nurture & protect human life, no matter how "differentiated" it may be. When embryonic stem cell research finds a cure for diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, cerebral palsy, or whatever, the drug companies will be there to mass market it, and they will not be concerned about the ethics of producing & discarding human embryos because, with dollar signs in their eyes, they won't be able to see the potential lives they are "discarding."
*Stepping off soapbox now...
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