The Stem Cell Society of India (SCSICON) on Monday held a session with the media to present the advances in Regenerative Medicine and stem cell research.
Stem cells are functional tissues that regenerate and repair damaged tissues and organs affected by age, disease and congenital defects.
They are made from dental pulp, bone marrow, adipose tissues even menstrual blood. They are stored in sterilised labs and have a life span of over 20 years.
Dr BS Rajput, leading Orthopaedic Surgeon and Organising chairman, SCSICON said, “The stem cells are widely used in the treatment of arthritis , critical limb injuries, spinal cord injuries and muscle dystrophy. We have had success in several cases where bed ridden patients regained mobility and agility”
Dr Alok Sharma, a world renowned Neurosurgeon and president of SCSICON, said about the benefits of stem cell therapy on neurological diseases.
“It is interesting to know that India is the leader in stem cell research followed by China and USA. Autism, cerebral palsy and even Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (AlS) patients can get new life with the stem cell therapy”, said Dr Alok Sharma.
However, no comprehensive law has been formulated for stem cell therapy till now. The treatment is available at leading hospitals of India such as AIIMS, Apollo, Neurogen Brain and Spine Institute (Mumbai), Criticare Multispeciality Hospital (Mumbai) but is done at the discretion of the doctor in the form of clinical trials and pilot studies.
“All practices related to stem cells are regulated by the DCG(I). But the need of the hour is a definite law so that stem cell therapy becomes widely accessible and available across the nation including all Government hospitals” said Dr Rohit Kulkarni, vice president, SCSICON.
“The session further stressed upon the urgent need for mass awareness as majority of Indian population is oblivious to the advantages of stem cell therapy. A little knowledge can go a long way and pave the way to a better life for the patients and the society”, Dr Kulkarni added.