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Policy Statement Archives
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Statement on Stem Cell Research |
August 27, 2001
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The American Society of Human Genetics
(ASHG) is a society of researchers and
professionals in human genetics that
represents nearly 8000 scientists,
physicians, nurses, genetic counselors, and
students actively engaged in genetic
discovery, teaching, and application of
knowledge of human genetics and the human
genome.
The membership has interests in many of the
issues raised in public debate on the use of
stem cells in research. The recent decision
presented to the public by President Bush
and the intense policy discussions taking
place in many forums in the Americas have
brought more attention to the issues.
As a major scientific organization whose
members have broad expertise and interest in
matters related to human genetics, and in
the application of genetic knowledge to the
well-being of people, the ASHG Board of
Directors has prepared this statement on
stem cell research.
The American Society of Human Genetics
encourages the adoption of policies that:
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Provide federal support for research to
discover and apply the life-sustaining
potential to be derived from existing
embryonic stem cell lines;
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Enhance federal support for
investigations of the potential of stem
cells of adult and umbilical cord or
similar sources;
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Encourage promising animal studies in
embryonic stem cell research to provide
a solid foundation for human
investigation;
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Provide federal funding for research on
cell lines derived from existing frozen
embryos that would otherwise be
discarded; and
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Support the appointment of an advisory
body providing for federal oversight to
foster public confidence in the conduct
of stem cell research.
As stewards of the field of human genetics
elected by the membership of the Society,
the Board of Directors of ASHG affirms that
basic research and the development of future
applications of stem cell research require
the ongoing commitment to scientific
integrity and social responsibility that has
served our organization well for the last 50
years. While the potential of stem cells
holds great promise for therapeutic
applications, scientists must proceed with
commitment to rigorous critical evaluation,
and a heightened sense of responsibility to
the patients who entrust their life and
health to us.
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