The term pseudomedicine is now considered a more appropriate term than stem cell tourism. This is despite the common knowledge that patients will travel the globe in search of stem cell cures. These treatments are however being offered on our doorstep, a cruise through the Google search engine will reveal numerous opportunities for stem cell clinics in most parts of the world including those considered most stringently regulated.

Stem cell pseudomedicine is characterised by commercialisation of cell based products coupled with a lack of scientific evidence regarding efficacy. It is transparent only in its marketing direct to the consumer. The patient pays the fee for service and positive beneficial results are claimed only in testimonials. Media driven stories often relating to famous sports personalities or film stars appear to back up credibility even though independent verification is conspicuous only by its absence.

Patients with diabetes unfortunately fall right into the middle of the trap when it comes to considering the range of treatments on offer. The very nature of diabetes means that patients will scour the internet looking for a cure. The associated complications affecting a variety of organs will widen the search for treatments still further.

The explosion of unregulated stem cell therapies in treating skin and joint diseases mean that many diabetic patients will also offer themselves to the possibilities of a variety of patch up cures.

The nutritional supplement industry is a further cause for concern. The marketing focus is on supplements that allegedly stimulate your own stem cells, there are no safety checks, no knowledge of substance purity, of dose or of efficacy. The evasion of regulation of these practices is a cause of great concern for the health and safety of our patients.

A person with diabetes is very likely to hear of stem cell therapy. These treatments may appear attractive simply by being marketed as a cure for diabetes.

It is important to state that no such claims have ever been substantiated by any scientific evidence. This field offers great potential but it is still in its infancy, we are nowhere near being able to offer a meaningful treatment programme with robust data on long-term outcomes or safety.

In questioning the validity of any treatment offered in this field it would be extremely valuable to explore and expand knowledge of possible risks and benefits. With this in mind it is recommended that anyone interested in this area should refer to an organisation set up to promote pubic and professional education in stem cell research and therapies.

A good start would be to review the information provided by the International Society for Stem Cell Research (see ISSCR.org )