Stem cells are a hot topic and new studies bring them into the spotlight over and over again. Unfortunately, there are also many myths surrounding stem cells, which often make people doubt the efficiency of stem cells therapies. Here are the most common myths on stem cells, debunked with facts.
Stem cells are the same
Most people think there is only one type of stem cells. In reality, there are multiple types of stem cells, depending on their origin. The widely known type of stem cells is the embryonic stem cell, which can grow into any type of cell. These are the stem cells used to grow organs and are highly controversial.
There are also adult stem cells in each human organ, which can be used in regenerative medicine injections to restore the tissues. Umbilical cord stem cells have been used to treat leukemia and other blood ailments.
Stem cell research is illegal
Stem cells might be controversial, but they are not illegal. Even embryo cells are legal and US state is funding the researches in this area.
Adult stem cells are better than immature ones
Embryonic stem cells provide lots of flexibility, but they do have their own drawbacks. Adult stem cells are effective and they have been used to treat successfully a number of conditions.
Stem cell therapy only helps patients with Parkinson’s
Stem cell therapy can be used to treat a lot of conditions, not only neurodegenerative disease. Researchers work on therapies against type I diabetes, multiple sclerosis and cardiovascular disease. UCSC are used to treat spinal cord injuries, athletic injuries and many other types of injuries which require tissue restoration.
Stem cells therapy can be used as an alternative to bypass surgery
While this might be the case in the future, right now, science is not that far. Stem cells can be used to treat some cardiovascular diseases, but they are not an alternative to a bypass surgery. There are several experimental treatments available for patients who exhausted all the other treatments, but not all patients respond positively to these treatments.
Stem cells can help you avoid surgery
This is not valid in all cases. Depending on your ailment, stem cell therapy can help you postpone surgery, maybe even avoid it. However, not in all cases. Stem cell therapies are usually less expensive than surgeries and less invasive, allowing the patient’s body to recover easier after the procedure. If you have the option to undergo stem cell therapy before surgery, you should take the opportunity.
Stem cell therapies can also be used to help surgery patients recover their mobility and heal the damaged area faster.
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