CSPC 2018

Organized by: Stem Cell Network, Lisa Willemse

Stem cell research is an exciting field of science and holds much promise for the treatment of chronic illnesses and diseases. However, stem cell research is complex and there is much to learn before stem cell-based treatments will be ready for routine clinical use. Today, there are very few stem cell therapies offered by medical professionals as the standard care of practice. Despite this, private clinics worldwide – and increasingly here in Canada – market stem cell-based therapies to people who are vulnerable and seeking relief for a variety of conditions, from arthritis to stroke.  Regulatory loopholes have allowed these clinics to expand in many jurisdictions.  Recent studies show that the global market for unproven therapies is $2.4B, with 60,000 patients purchasing treatments each year. Nearly 800 clinics are operating in the United States alone, it is unclear how many are operating in Canada.

These treatments come with high financial costs, little to no medical follow-up, and the risk of adverse outcomes. None have been proven to be effective through clinical trials, the medical gold standard required to determine both safety and efficacy. Nor do these clinics publish their methods or outcomes in peer-reviewed journals, relying instead on anecdotal evidence and patient testimonials to support their claims. By preying upon the hopes of desperate patients, unregulated stem cell clinics are making very tidy profits.

Led by the Stem Cell Network, the stem cell research community has been working nationally and alongside international partners to better understand the issue and provide guidance that fit social, legal and political frameworks. With limited resources dedicated to the massive effort required to effectively debunk existing myths and communicate the risks to the public, scientists are facing a losing battle. Action is needed and Canada is well positioned to become a leader for the world in responding to this growing industry and its unethical practices.  However, to meet the challenge head-on a coordinated effort is required; one that sees the science community, patient groups, health care providers, media and government all playing their respective part to increase awareness of fake or risky therapies.
With reference to a paper detailing the outcomes of a 2017 workshop (publication expected summer/fall 2018), this panel will explore the current state of the issue in Canada and provide insights on what they believe is needed to mitigate the proliferation of a new market that is offering unproven and risky treatments to the general public.