The verdict on stem cell

1. Do you think research on stem cells should be allowed?

Yes, without restrictions - 5 votes (7%)

Yes, but regulated - 57 votes (79%)

No - 1 votes (1%)

Don't know - 9 votes (13%)

 Total votes - 72

2. Do you think the potential uses of stem cells are exaggerated?

Yes, way too much - 6 votes (9%)

No. It is possible in the future - 46 votes (67%)

Not everything is possible - 16 votes (23%)

Don't know - 1 votes (1%)

Total votes - 69

3. Do you agree to the use of donated embryos in stem cell research?

 Yes - 56 votes (82%)

No - 3 votes (4%)

Don't know - 9 votes (13%)

 Total votes - 68

4. Do you think Malaysia can excel in stem cell research and treatment?

 Yes, in near future - 14 votes (19%)

Yes, but there is a long way to go - 44 votes (61%)

No - 4 votes (6%)

Don't know - 10 votes (14%)

 Total votes - 72

5. If needs arises, would you opt for stem cell treatment?

 Yes, I don't mind the source of stem cells - 52 votes (78%)

Yes, depending on the source of stem cells - 13 votes (19%)

No, in any situation - 2 votes (3%)

Don't know - 0 votes (0%)

 Total votes - 67

6. What do you think of your level of understanding on stem cells?

 Very good - 8 votes (11%)

Fairly good - 22 votes (31%)

Not good - 40 votes (57%)

 Total votes - 70
A poll taken by MABIC in March gauged the response of readers regarding the various aspects of stem cell research. From the votes tallied from a total of 72 people, only 5 agreed that it should be allowed with not restriction while 57 allowed it in presence of restrictive regulations. This is contrasted by 1 person opposing stem cell research in general, and the others gave indication of their affiliations. This is indicative of the liberal attitude of readers towards stem cell research.

Similarly, 67% of readers believe in the potential of stem cells being as reported by the media, while 23% maintained their reservations. Conversely, 9% believes that media reports have greatly distorted the potential of stem cell research.

The use of donated embryos has been creating quite a stir among academics due to its controversial source. However, readers overwhelmingly threw their support behind it, with 82% voting for its cause, while 4% voted against.

The poll also shows that our readers place their trust in Malaysia’s potential in stem cell research and treatment, with 80% agreeing and only 4% disagreeing that Malaysia would excel in the field. However, it is noted that out of this only 19% believes that it would happen in the near future while the other 61% thinks that there is a long way to go.

When it comes to one’s own health, 78% of readers believe that they would opt for stem cell treatment with no qualms over the source while 19% would opt of it depending on the source. 3% of readers would not opt for stem cell treatments in any case.

Lastly, judging from the poll, most readers do not have a good understanding of stem cell research, with only a mere 11% believe that they have a very good knowledge of the subject, while 31% a fairly good knowledge. What is lacking here is easily accessible knowledge on stem cell research. The appropriate organizations should provide easily understandable information with easy access for the general public.