7 Stem Cell Therapy Myths debunked

Misconceptions arise about any emerging medical treatment, but they seem particularly pronounced when it comes to Stem Cell Therapy. Perhaps that’s because the ethical debate that has surrounded stem cell therapy has forced several prejudices in to it.There are many myths about this subject and much erroneous speculation. So we asked Dr. Luis Romero and other members of ProgenCell Scientific Committee to identify the common myths about Stem Cell Therapy today to help people wishing to know more about it separate fact from fiction.

I. Stem Cell Therapy is not Legal.

Research with Stem Cells and the therapeutic use of Stem Cells has been happening for a long time now. For over 30 years, HSCT (Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation) has been used to treat people with conditions such as leukaemia, lymphoma and several inherited blood disorders. Depending on the country were Stem Cell Therapy is used different laws apply, in the specific case of ProgenCell – Stem Cell Therapies operates under a fully regulated protocol overseen by COFEPRIS (our local version of the FDA). In conclusion, stem cell therapy is legal, nevertheless one should always seek and verify this claims.

II. Stem cells come only from embryos.  Embryonic stem cell research is only a portion of the whole stem cell therapy canvas. There are several natural sources and types of Stem Cells. Most stem cells intended for regenerative therapy are generally isolated either from the patient’s bone marrow or from adipose tissue. Stem cells do not come only from embryos.

III. Stem Cell Therapy is Unproven.

There is a wide range of diseases for which there are proven treatments based on stem cells. There are a number of studies that have been published in the regenerative medicine and orthopedic literature demonstrating positive results from stem cell therapies.

IV. Stem Cell Therapy can cure anything.

Stem Cells are not a cure for everything. However, several studies have shown an  improvement in the for patients suffering from degenerative conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, Parkinson’s Alzheimer’s, autism, lupus, macular degeneration, musculoskeletal issues, pulmonary diseases, renal and hepatic failure, multiple sclerosis, stroke, spinal cord, erectile dysfunction, among other conditions.

V. All Stem Cells are the same.

There are many types of stem cells, and can be classified depending on their source, their potential or their application. The differences among them are striking, not only at the biological level, but also in applications of medical procedures. The regulatory framework for each king of stem cells is also something to be considered. 

VI. Stem Cells from the patients own body dont’t work.

Adult Stem Cells are currently the most widely used in medicine. It is an unfortunate myth. Bone marrow is an effective and useful source for stem cells  – it contains unique growth factors and significant hematopoietic cells that help drive tissue regeneration.

VII. Embryonic Stem Cell Therapy is more Effective.

When talking about potency in the field of stem cell therapy it can be a tricky word and has lead into some misconceptions. Potency does not mean that a certain type of stem cell is more effective than other. Potency refers to capability of the stem cells to become other type of cell, which is not always helpful and can even be dangerous. This is one of the major challenges that must be addressed before embryonic stem cells can be widely and better applied in regenerative medicine.

If you are interested in Stem Cell Therapy or wish to find out if it’s the right choice for you, contact us for a FREE evaluation. ProgenCell provides specialized treatments for a variety of conditions, including stem cell therapy for fibromyalgia, helping patients reduce symptoms and improve their overall well-being. Our medical team can assist in determining if Stem Cell Therapy is right for you.