The first stem cell transplant was done in 1957. Since then, over one million stem cell transplants have been performed worldwide. Thousands of people now benefit from this treatment every year. Stem cells replace cells damaged by chemotherapy, disease or serve as a way for the donor’s immune system to fight some types of cancer and blood-related diseases, such as leukemia, lymphoma, neuroblastoma and multiple myeloma to mention a few.
For many patients, stem cell therapy offers an opportunity to address the symptoms and side effects of chronic, incurable disease that has dramatically affected their quality of life. Stem cells can offer lasting relief from pain and decreased mobility, often after one treatment. One important benefit for patients is the elimination of daily medication, many of which have accompanying side effects.
Stem cell therapies can offer key benefits for your physical health and well being. It is known to reverse inflammation, regulate the immune system, re-establish cell-to-cell communication, replace damaged cells and regenerate normal blood flow.
In a stem cell transplant, stem cells are first specialized into the necessary adult cell type. Then, those mature cells replace tissue that is damaged by disease or injury. This type of treatment could be used to replace virtually any tissue or organ that is injured or diseased. They can replace neurons damaged by spinal cord injury, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease or other neurological problems. It also helps produce insulin that could treat people with diabetes or cartilage to repair damage caused by arthritis
But stem cell-based therapies can do much more and research will continue on the use of stem cells and the benefits that can come from using stem cells.
