"Stem Cells: The Promise" consists of two documentaries which originally formed part of Channel 4's "Equinox" series. They were two of the most talked about documentaries shown in recent years and their importance and relevance have only increased as the subject of stem cell medicine features ever more prominently in the world's media.

 

These films show how medical research is on the verge of a very deep understanding of our bodies that will bring us substantially healthier and longer lives. Stem Cell medicine will change our lives as individuals, it will change society, it will change the world. Society had better be prepared for a world where people in the West can expect to live active healthy lives of 120 years and more.

 

Stem Cell technology  is "regenerative" medicine.  It will reverse the effects of stroke,  heart disease, arthritis, Alzheimer's and is able to restore mobility. It is already capable of making cancer cells self destruct and will be used to rejuvenate old tissues and organs. An end to cancer and the prospect of something approaching immortality lies before us.  How is this possible and what are the consequences?

 

In the affluent West this medicine will be welcomed, but will have profound economic implications. Does a healthier, more active older population mean an end to pensions? Moreover, what of the Third World? How will developing countries react to the people of the West standing on the edge of something resembling immortality whilst drought, famine and disease perpetuate an existence that will increasingly resemble the Dark Ages?

 

 "Immortality" explores the defining medical science of our era and its profound global implications.  It features staggering case histories and interviews with the leading researchers, executives and academics in the field.

 

Included with the "Immortality"  is the first part of "Stem Cells: The Promise". Entitled "Beginnings", this 50 minute films is an excellent introduction to the subject of Stem Cell research.