Stem cell treatments around the world: Boon or bane?

Abstract

Stem cell-based therapies hold immense possibilities for treating diseases. While responsible scientists and physicians attempt to develop such treatments in a scientific and ethical manner, many others around the world are already offering unproven therapies for a wide range of diseases. Interestingly, they often use cells that have been known and accessible for decades. It has resulted in large numbers of vulnerable patients being exploited around the world. This chapter will address the reasons for this phenomenon, the impact that it has had on the field, the harm that can come from them, and the potential solutions to this problem.