Stem Cell Treatment Scams on the Rise

John Rodolf was convinced by an online advertisement to spend $6,000 at the Lung Institute in Tampa, Florida, in August 2015. The institute's website presented scientific studies and patient experiences as evidence that their innovative yet straightforward stem cell therapy could effectively manage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a disease that had Rodolf gasping for air most of his waking hours. His personal physician had labeled the disease as untreatable. However, Rodolf mentions, the website implied that regaining his breathing capacity could be as easy as extracting these unique cells from his blood and reintroducing them into his body via an IV.

What the institute failed to mention was that such therapies are not backed by a majority of scientific research.

Deceptive Promises

Physicians and researchers have made modest yet significant progress in utilizing stem cells to cure some complex diseases. However, lung diseases have not yet been included in this list. Rodolf, who claims to have received no advantage from the treatments, has joined a lawsuit accusing the Lung Institute of deliberately deceiving him and numerous other patients. Looking back, he wishes he had been more doubtful. "It was a poor decision," he admits. "But I was struggling to breathe at that moment, and when you're unable to breathe, you're willing to try almost anything."

The Lung Institute refused to participate in an interview for this piece, but a representative stated via email that the clinic has treated thousands of patients, many of whom have indeed experienced an enhancement in their quality of life.

Growing Treatment Scams

Scientists and federal regulators express that cases such as Rodolf's highlight a growing concern. As the potential of stem cell therapy becomes more evident, the understanding of what this emerging treatment can and cannot do becomes increasingly muddled. With minimal consumer safeguards, unethical physicians are taking advantage of this confusion for financial gain. Nationwide, clinics similar to the one Rodolf visited are advertising stem cell therapies for a wide range of conditions, including joint injuries, sexual dysfunction, COPD, lupus, and diabetes. These treatments, which are seldom covered by insurance and can run into thousands of dollars, have not been proven effective. Some have even been shown to be harmful.

A Medical Ambiguity

Stem cells are unique cells that have the ability to mend damaged tissues and organs. Stem cell therapy involves the use of these cells in injections and tissue transplants to heal wounds and combat diseases.

However, the prevailing scientific view is that stem cells obtained from fully matured tissues (often referred to by scientists as "adult stem cells") can only morph into the tissue type they originated from. The healing potential of these adult cells is thought to be significantly restricted, as fat stem cells can only become fat, liver stem cells can only become liver, and so forth.

Climate of Uncertainty

Consumers such as John Rodolf are not short of opportunities to experience the potential benefits and risks of experimental stem cell therapies. These treatments are being researched by prestigious medical institutions like the Mayo Clinic, provided in the consultation rooms of dermatologists and orthopedists, and promoted in newspapers and online by over 500 stem cell specialty clinics.

The extent of scientific scrutiny these treatments have undergone varies widely. Some have been meticulously developed and approved by the FDA; others have not been formally investigated but have some supporting evidence. Yet others are unproven and alarmingly unscientific.

How to Safeguard Yourself

The FDA, the International Society for Stem Cell Research, and CR's medical professionals recommend exercising caution when contemplating stem cell therapy.

Be Cautious

Be cautious of exaggerated claims and exorbitant charges. Physicians conducting stem cell treatment trials under strict clinical conditions typically do not market their services with grandiose, attention-grabbing ads that guarantee significant enhancements or complete remedies. They also don't impose high fees. There might be some minor charges for travel or other personal costs, but the treatment itself should be either free or inexpensive for participants.

Inquire Thoroughly

Any medical professional proposing stem cell therapy should be capable of detailing the origin of the cells, the process they will undergo prior to being injected into your body, and the precise way they will address your ailment or injury. They should also be able to provide evidence of safety and effectiveness, even for experimental procedures. Do not be satisfied with patient testimonials alone.

Examine the Details Carefully

If the therapy is presented as a clinical trial, ensure that the trial has received approval from the FDA, a procedure referred to as obtaining investigative new drug (IND) approval. The agency recommends that you request to view the actual approval letter to confirm it has been granted specifically for the therapy you're contemplating.

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