Article | Strategy and Innovation area | Year 2020
 

Perception and Influenced Factors Towards Stem Cell Technology in Thailand

by S. Poonpipatgul; Prattana Punnakitikasem
  
  UTCC International Journal of Business and Economics 12(2), p.17-40

Abstract

The stem cell technology is one of emerging medical technology that has gained attention from public especially patients seeking for advanced treatment. There are many concerns about stem cells in different aspects. Until now, there are limited studies on how people perceive and accept stem cell technology especially in Thailand market. This study aims to identify any factors that influence the perception of public toward stem cell technology in Thailand. Quantitative method was conducted through survey online questionnaire among Thai population. 113 questionnaires were analyzed with descriptive and inferential statistics techniques. Results reveal that many factors influenced the stem cell technology perception but not religious belief as previously reported in other countries. Thai society relies on knowledge than familiarity to set a perception which is in contrast to other societies. The public perception on stem cell technology requires media attention level of public and reliability of media sources and the trustworthy key persons such as scientists (support by university not private) and medical doctors as the key persons to communicate the technical information. With right information and communication, the public will perceive benefits of this technology and use it to build the right perception on stem cell technology. These factors can be adapted by government and private sectors for preparation of public and building the right perception toward stem cell technology.