The recent growth of so-called stem cell tourism reflects the high optimism that currently surrounds stem cell science. Stem cell treatments for various conditions are increasingly advertised over the Internet as being available at hospitals and clinics around the world. However, most are clinically unproven. Despite numerous warnings from scientists about the dangers posed by such treatments, many individuals are evidently prepared to take the risk, sometimes on more than one occasion. This article explores the dynamics of hope that underpin stem cell tourism. Drawing on ideas from the sociology of hope, as applied to biomedicine, the article explores how hope is constructed and shapes actions in relation to stem cell treatments. Making reference to the findings from an Australian study of patients and carers who travelled overseas to receive stem cell treatments, it is argued that hope has an ambiguous significance in the context of deregulated health care. As we explain, this has implications for patients' and carers' treatment decisions and experiences. The findings are discussed in light of current responses to stem cell tourism.
Recent media portrayals of developments in stem cell research underline the high expectations that surround this field. Trials for stem cell treatments are currently underway around the world; however, very few applications are widely available. In spite of this, a range of purported stem cell therapies are being marketed directly to patients, principally via the Internet. Scientists and clinicians have expressed concerns about the marketing of unproven treatments but responses thus far have been based upon a limited understanding of the dynamics of the advertising of such treatments. Drawing on the findings from a qualitative analysis of online, "direct-to-consumer" advertisements (DTCA) for stem cell treatments, this article examines the role played by such advertisements in the "political economy of hope." It reveals the various techniques used by advertisers to effect a positive portrayal of treatments and thus help engender confidence in treatments and trust in providers. It concludes by discussing the implications of the findings for policy responses to the marketing of such treatments.
Although the focus is on Australian law, the arguments we develop in this paper are likely to resonate beyond the specific jurisdiction reviewed here, and raise questions about the mutually interdependent role of law and policy in compounding the stigmatisation and marginalisation of people who use drugs and drug 'addicts'.
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