Have you heard the recent news on stem cell research and therapies? Various companies have been conducting studies for decades, but not until recently did the science behind it move one step closer to exciting new possibilities. These stem cell treatments are a type of cell therapy that bring together new cells into the adult bodies for possible treatments of cancer, diabetes, neurological disorders and other medical conditions.
Stem cell therapy is a procedure in which new cells are introduced directly into an injurious area or joint, promoting healing and growth. The multitude of administered cells allows the body to proceed with the healing process at an accelerated rate. This treatment has been recognized by the medical industry worldwide as the biggest medical breakthrough in natural healing.
There are many studies showing how stem cells help speed up recovery time for those who have been treated by them, however, results vary from patient to patient. Although the science behind stem cell research and how they work is becoming increasingly well-known and trusted throughout the medical community, there is still no way to quantitatively represent how they will impact each individual since every patient is so unique. Stem cells have an important benefit for the pharmaceutical field since new drugs can be tested on stem cells to assess their safety before testing drugs on animals and human models.
The potential to repair, restore, replace and regenerate cells can lead to reverse effects in other diseases such as heart disease, Parkinson’s, genetic
defects and burn victims. It is needless to say that stem cells have an enormous potential in health and medical research, but to fully harness this potential, scientists are studying how stem cells transform, or differentiate, into the diverse range of specialized cells that make humans what we are today.
Currently it is donated organs and tissues that are substituted for damaged or dysfunctional ones. Sadly, the number of people in anticipation of a transplant is much higher than the number of available organs. Transplant waiting lists are vast and many people pass away pending transplants. Stem cells offer a viable source of replacement transplants.
The current benefits of stem cell usage are already well documented and it is expected that continued research will pave the way for new treatments. For those suffering from serious diseases, stem cells offer hope for effective treatment or perhaps even a reversal of the ailment. Time will confirm the full success of stem cell therapies and continued research should teach us more about using stem cells to treat debilitating medical conditions.
In addition to your e-Newsletter we have included an article on Hospital Bill Audit to educate our members on how HCCUA can help reduce high hospitals bills you may have incurred. We always recommend that if you know about an upcoming medical procedure needed, that you call Member Services at 866-227-5400 or your insurance carrier prior to your stay in a hospital or procedure to make sure you are getting the correct treatment for the lowest cost.
As our highlighted recipe for the month we have selected another recipe from Tasteofhome.com Cashew-Curry Chicken Salad that is absolutely divine meal for lunch or to serve at a gathering with crackers! Enjoy and let us know what you think!!
Sincerely,
Kristine Eckardt, Director of Member Communications
HCCUA