Contact: Margie Shealy, Christian Medical Association, 888-231-2637, 423-341-4254 cell, margie.shealy@cmda.org

WASHINGTON, Jan. 9 /Christian Newswire/ -- Citing a breakthrough stem cell discovery announced this week, the Christian Medical Association (CMA), the nation's largest faith-based association of doctors, today publicly urged U.S. members of Congress to devote healthcare dollars to research on stem cells derived from sources that do not kill living human embryos. The U.S. House of Representatives is considering legislation, paralleling a bill previously vetoed by President Bush, that would provide federal sanction for destroying human embryos in pursuit of embryonic stem cells.

"We urge all members of Congress to uphold respect for life while maximizing the investment of American tax dollars by investing in proven and promising stem cell research that does not violate the conscience of many Americans," noted CMA CEO Dr. David Stevens.

Dr. Stevens added, "We have long known that unlike human embryonic stem cells, adult stem cells have been proven effective in treating patients in cases involving dozens of diseases. We have long known that human embryonic stem cells are notoriously unstable and tend to form tumors. And now we know that stem cells derived from a baby's placenta and amniotic fluid appear to hold the same tissue-building potential once thought exclusive to human embryonic stem cells."

Dr. Stevens said, "We have learned that the ethical route to stem cells is also the most medically effective and promising route to stem cells. Americans' resources should be used for ethical, effective and promising stem cell research that does not violate ethical standards by killing human embryos."

To schedule an interview, please contact Margie Shealy at (423) 844-1047 or by e-mail: margie.shealy@cmda.org. The Christian Medical Association is equipped with Ku Band Digital Uplink satellite and ISDN lines.