Myth #1: Stem cells can cure almost every ailment
The misrepresentation of the therapeutic abilities of stem cells is quite common. Stem cells are not a “magic cure” for all diseases. The long term therapeutic properties of stem cells are still being investigated, and although there have been many studies completed showing their positive effects on patients, results cannot always be guaranteed. However, stem cell therapy is a viable treatment option for autoimmune conditions, chronic inflammation and a handful of other ailments.
Myth #2: All Stem cells are sourced unethically One of the significant hurdles stem cell therapy has had to overcome the misconception that all stem cells are embryonic (sourced from a fetus). Embryonic stem cells are derived from human embryos and typically carry a negative moral status.This negative view initially arose because human embryos are sourced from abortions, which are a culturally controversial practice.Today, most stem cells used in a clinical setting are derived from bone marrow, adipose, peripheral blood or umbilical cord tissue. These forms of stem cells are not sourced from embryos and thus do not carry a negative moral connotation.
Myth#3: Not all stem cells are created equal. Embryonic stem cells are the perfectly source of cells for treatment.
Reality: iPSCs have almost eliminated the need for embryonic stem cells in the treatment.
“An advantage of iPSCs is that you can make a cell line of limitless supply that can be turned into any individual- and organ specific cell. All we need is a blood sample to make them—and then that patient doesn’t need to worry about tissue rejection,” Dr. Lana says.
Myth#4: Real doctors don’t support Stem Cell Therapy.
Fact: Stem cell therapy has gained traction among the medical community as a whole, thanks to the support of “real doctors” who perform the procedure, and documents the case studies. The physicians who endorse this therapy are board certified professionals who realize the importance of utilizing treatments that support the body’s natural ability to repair itself.
These are just five of many myths associated with stem cell therapy. The truth is that there will always be some fiction surrounding this topic, but with proper education, people can become aware of the benefits of stem cell therapy and begin to see this as a viable solution to issues.
Myth#5: Stem cells are a cure.
Fact: Stem cells have the potential to cure medical ailments and conditions. This is because stem cells are NOT a cure in themselves although they can help the body to regenerate what it does need to heal itself. Stem cells do have the potential to aid in the therapeutic enhancement of various medical issues because of their ability to change through differentiation.
Through studying stem cells, scientists can learn how these specific cells can grow and develop into other cells that are necessary for the body to function properly or to repair itself. What this means is that a stem cell can change into the type of cell necessary to a specific part of the body.
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