What is the role of stem cell therapy in the management of noncommunicable diseases? How does it work and what are its implications on the health system
Center for Rapid Evidence Synthesis (ACRES)DRRES-26
This Rapid Response should be cited as
ACRES (2011) What is the role of stem cell therapy in the management of noncommunicable diseases? How does it work and what are its implications on the health system; A Rapid Response Brief. Kampala: The Center for Rapid Evidence Synthesis
Summary
Background: The WHO has reported a global shift from infectious to non-communicable diseases (NCDs), which are now the leading causes of death worldwide. Cell-based therapy, or regenerative medicine, is a promising new intervention. Findings: Stem cell therapy has the potential to improve clinical outcomes for chronic diseases. Studies show consistent improvement in myocardial function through autologous bone marrow stem cell transplantation. However, barriers include ethical, financial, and legislative challenges. Conclusion: Stem cell research presents a novel therapeutic method that could alleviate the burden of NCDs, but several barriers still need to be addressed.