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PrintA Backgrounder on Stem Cells
The topic of stem cell research is one area where the voter can look to gauge where the candidates stand on issues specific to diabetes. Many feel that stem cell research, quite possibly, could lead to a diabetes cure — as well as a cure for many other diseases. Many experts regard the availability of stem cells as the solution to the islet-shortage problem. At present, people with type 1 diabetes can get pancreas transplants to re-teach their bodies how to produce islets. The problem, however, is that two pancreases are usually necessary to get the number of islets required for a transplant procedure. Stems cells offer the prospect of creating an unlimited pool of islets. Not only would this benefit people with type 1 diabetes who no longer produce islets, but it may benefit type 2s as well whose ability to produce islets has been impaired.
Proponents of embryonic stem cell research argue that using embryonic stem cells will entirely replace the need for pancreas organ donors since the supply of islets for transplantation will be limitless. Opponents argue that using stem cells from embryos equates to killing an unborn human.
The Candidates on Stem Cell Research
Senator Obama is also an ardent supporter of embryonic stem cell research. He was a co-sponsor of the 2005 Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act, which President Bush vetoed. (11) In July 2007, when Bush vetoed embryonic stem cell research for the second time, Obama was outspoken in his condemnation of Bush’s veto. According to the June 20, 2007 issue of the New York Times, Senator Obama issued a statement saying Americans deserve a president who “will make this promise real for the American people.” (5)
During the debate on the Stem Cell Research Enactment Act, Obama issued a statement saying, “I am frustrated by the opposition this bill has generated and saddened that we are preventing the advancement of important science that could potentially impact millions of suffering Americans… Recent developments in stem cell research may hold the key to improved treatments, if not cures, for those affected by Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, spinal cord injury and countless other conditions.” (12)
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