Stem Cell Therapy

Texas set to become first state to officially recognize controversial treatment

While the Texas Legislature has a reputation for being very conservative, it is poised to lead the way in one sector of medical research. Lawmakers approved a bill this session that would make Texas the first state to officially recognize the use of experimental stem cell therapies that have not been approved by the federal government for the treatment of chronic diseases.

Right now such therapies are used across the country in a sort of “don’t ask, don’t tell” mode. If signed by Gov. Greg Abbott—and the governor has signaled his support—the Lone Star State would set up a legal framework for the therapies.

Foes warn such experimental therapies can be ineffective or cause harm, even shorten life. There are also those with ethical and moral objections to stem cell research and treatment.

Supporters say patients who have chronic or terminal diseases have what is called “the right to try” experimental therapy, even if such treatment poses risks. We want to know what you think. Do you support patient’s “right” to try experimental and unproven treatments, including stem cell therapies? Or are you opposed?

Send your response (50 words maximum) to opinion@texarkanagazette.com by Wednesday, June 7. You can also mail your response to the Texarkana Gazette Friday Poll, at P.O. Box 621, Texarkana, TX 75504 or drop it off at our office, 101 E. Broad St., Texarkana, Ark. Be sure to include your name, address and phone number. We will print as many responses as we can in next Friday’s paper.

Last Week: Free to go, or heck no?

Last week’s question was about notorious athlete and actor O.J. Simpson, who is up for parole in Nevada. Should Simpson be released on parole, or should he remain behind bars?

From www.facebook.com/TexarkanaGazette

He went to jail for murder, although they claim it was for robbery. Stay. He is a murderer. Let him out. He deserves to stay locked up. Release him. Keep him in jail the full time. Remain behind bars. No release. Let him out. Pedophiles serve less time. Nope.