Factors Affecting The Decision Making Of Australian Couples To Donate Their Cryopreserved Empbryos For Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research

Abstract

The purpose of this review was to describe attitudes of couples in Australia towards
donating their surplus frozen embryos for human embryonic stem cell research. A systematic
search was conducted including articles published in English, in peer reviewed journals and
scientific discourse indexed in MEDLINE / Pub Med database. Embryo donation rate among
Australian couples was found to be relatively lower than other countries. Although factors like age
of couples, Family completion and financial status influence the decision to donate stored
embryos in many countries, however willingness to donate embryos among Australian couples
based on these factors was less pronounced. Similarly, religious conviction and moral issues play
a dominant role in their decision making. On the other hand, a substantial number of Australians
would seek help and counseling from their treating physicians at the time of decision to donate
embryo for stem cell research. Nevertheless, potential benefits associated with stem cell
research should be weighed against potential social, ethical and legal harm to the society