填空题
We still do not know all of the reasons why babies are born sick or with major disabilities. But we do know (31) . One baby, maybe more, (32) of one hundred is born with a serious genetic problem. Gene therapy (33) a very real possibility of correcting many of these disorders. It could transform — indeed, it already has — lives that are doomed (34) the pain and anguish of chronic illness. But scientific advances can also generate misunderstanding and fear. The Salk polio vaccine, so closely identified (35) the March of Dimes, was one of the most important medical gains of our time. It was safe. It worked. But (36) earlier vaccine used "live" viruses that caused fatalities, researchers (37) to overcome public apprehension.
Some critics are concerned that gene therapy will be abused create "super" humans. (38) are disturbed about possible disclosures of personally sensitive (39) history. Still, the public seems to be giving this new technology the benefit of the doubt. (40) recent survey conducted for the foundation revealed that eighty-nine (41) of Americans support gene therapy and favor continued research. Curiously, this (42) poll showed widespread public ignorance about this form of treatment. (43) the need for public education on a broad scale is self-evident. There is much yet for (44) scientists and laypeople to learn.
The main thing is this: we cannot let our fears destroy our hopes. We cannot let myth and misinterpretation (45) us from seeking treatment for the thousands (46) suffer from genetic diseases. Let’s continue to resolve the issues while moving (47) to intensify the research effort.
(48) my own viewpoint, if genetic therapy can spare one mother the anguish of knowing that her newborn will suffer (49) its whole life — if it can help sick little girls get well enough to dance — can we afford (50) to make the effort.