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| MS in focus Issue
11
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2008
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Stem cell treatment is a very high-profile topic in current MS research. Over 92 percent of the respondents to the questionnaire had MS and the interest was well reflected in the highest ever response – 886 – to any MS in focus online survey. |
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Awareness and the ethical question
Only six percent (50 respondents) were unaware of different types of stem cells available and over 92 percent would consider having stem cell treatment, but many also wanted to know about risks and how safe it was, or what stage the research is currently at.
Respondents were very specific about the kind of stem cells they found acceptable for treatment – many were uncomfortable with the concept of embryonic stem cells or against it altogether; however, it was seen by many as an ethical dilemma, but some would still proceed “if there was no alternative”.
Information sources The Internet is a very popular source of information about stem cell research, with an overwhelming majority of 97 percent of respondents looking to the web for their information; two-thirds (66 percent) also went to MS Societies for more information.
Interestingly, almost as many people looked to books and journals (35 percent) to research stem cells and MS as those who went directly to a neurologist (38 percent) for more information.
The future for stem cell research
In spite of 91 percent responding “yes” to the question: “Do you think that your national MS Society should use funds for stem cell research?”, there were still many questions posed concerning stem cell treatment, ranging from what the risks would be, to what types of MS the treatment works on, and how invasive the treatment would be.
Conclusion
Overall awareness is very high but knowledge appears to be inconsistent in the field of stem cell research, with a high level of support from respondents about continuing with current research and finding out more about stem cell treatment overall. Many use the word “cure” in their comments; stem cell treatment is viewed positively by many as a future treatment or something they would definitely consider if their type of MS worsened. The general outlook and receptiveness for further research in this field is very positive.
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