Letters | Hong Kong would be right to allow embryo storage indefinitely

Readers discuss a proposal related to fertility preservation, and revised A&E charges

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Parents position their babies before the start of a baby crawling contest during the “Children’s Book Fair & Super Parents & Kids Expo” on December 6 at the AsiaWorld-Expo, in Chek Lap Kok. Photo: Nora Tam

Published: 2:30pm, 27 Mar 2025

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I have read with interest the report, ‘‘Hongkongers should be allowed to store embryos indefinitely: statutory body” (March 13). I am pleased to see this issue being addressed.

Since late 2023, the Hong Kong Cancer Fund has offered a free service to assist young cancer patients with fertility preservation. When diagnosed, a cancer patient must process a lot of information, such as what treatment to receive, what the side-effects might be and when they should start treatment.

Young adults also need to consider fertility and whether they would like to start a family in the future. This decision must be made before surgery or treatments such chemotherapy and radiotherapy that may damage reproductive organs.

Fertility preservation is extremely expensive. We have helped a number of young adults – including recent graduates or people embarking on a new career.

They do not have the savings and financial resources to pay for treatment and fertility preservation. Being diagnosed at such a young age is traumatic for them and their families. Adding a financial barrier only increases their stress.

How would a young cancer patient know where they will be in 10 years’ time? Will they have met the right partner to settle down with to start a family? Will they be in a better financial position? They may be in their mid- to late 20s and still not ready to start a family. Extending the time they can store their egg, embryo, ovarian tissue or sperm is imperative.