Frequently Asked Questions about the treatment

What is stem cell therapy?

Stem cell therapy is the use of adult stem cells to treat certain diseases. The stem cells used at Progencell are derived from the patient's own bone marrow. In general terms, stem cells are progenitor cells that lead to the creation of new cells. They are regenerative in their function; they are regenerative cells.

What are Bone Marrow Stem cells?

Bone marrow is a specific tissue found inside bones. Its main purpose is to produce stem cells, which give rise to the various blood cell types, especially the white blood cells, the red blood cells and the platelets. Each stem cell can further form millions of stem cells. Most stem cells are found in the bone marrow of the chest, hips, skull, upper arms and legs. If the stem cells develop into fully functional cells, they are released into the blood. A smaller number of undifferentiated stem cells are also found in the bloodstream.

How many treatments are given?

Typically, three treatments are given. Treatments are given over a period of 1 year, one treatment every four to five months, depending on the patient's condition and the doctor's recommendation for the particular individual.

How long does a patient need to be at the clinic?

Between 3 to 6 hours, depending upon the condition of the individual patient.

Can other treatments be taken at the same time?

There are not any known contraindications for other therapies during stem cell treatment. Typically, a doctor will review what other treatments and medication the patient is already taking.

Are there any known side effects to the therapy?

Patients have not reported any side effects other than discomfort at the injection site and in some cases mild headaches.

How long does it take to get an appointment?

The multidisciplinary medical committee will review the patient's medical records. It will then take 2 to 3 days to review the records and get back to the patient. Then the patient is scheduled for the next earliest available appointment. The process of scheduling takes 2 to 3 weeks, from the time of the initial contact to the date of the first treatment.

What about the ethical issues involved with stem cell therapy?

According to several religious denominations, adult stem cells from Bone Marrow are not encumbered by any ethical or moral dilemmas. Those ethical issues, which apply to fetal and embryonic stem cells do not apply to adult stem cells. The Catholic Church and other institutions have issued papers which actually encourage research and the use of adult stem cells in the treatment of human disease, as an ethically acceptable alternative to the use of fetal and embryonic stem cells.

Is a special diet required?

Typically no. A doctor will review the patient's condition and make recommendations if needed.

Are any nutritional supplements or medication taken along with stem cell treatment?

There may be specific nutritional supplements that may enhance the potential benefits of stem cell therapy. Such prescriptions will be made on an individual basis, depending on each patient's particular evaluation.

Does drinking or smoking affect therapy?

Alcohol consumption and cigarette smoking can both be detrimental to new progenitor stem cells. It is highly advisable that people do not smoke or drink 2 weeks prior to and after treatment.

How does one apply to become a patient?

It is simple to obtain information and to get a medical evaluation without any cost. Feel free to contact us and be assured we will be completely honest with the possibilities of your success with Progencell's treatment.. Please visit our Communication section or call (664) 200-2321, 1-888-4GENCEL (1-888-443 6235).

Is there a risk of developing Cancer?

This is a justified concern if a therapy involves embryonic stem cells. Because embryonic stem cells actually do divide at an extremely fast rate, they have been shown to have cancer-causing potential in animals and humans. However, therapy with autologous bone marrow stem cells have no risk of developing cancer.

Where is the treatment performed?

All treatments are performed at our Clinic at Progencell. We are located in Zona Río, Baja California, México 1 minute away from the US-MEX border.

Why are we located in Zona Río, Baja California, México?

In Mexico we have all the necessary permits to apply these treatments and to help improve the health conditions of today's patients. Tijuana has a privileged location on the border between Mexico and the U.S. simplifying the logistics of patients transporting to/and from the airports of San Diego, California and Tijuana, Mexico. Besides the great hospitality, there are many tourist attractions less than 20 miles away from Progencell, giving you the option of mixing treatment with pleasure for you and your travel companions.

Will I be hospitalized?

No. Bone marrow collection and stem cell implantation are outpatient procedures and will be done at our facility.

What language do they speak at Progencell?

Spanish and English are spoken by most of our professionals. If another language is needed, we will arrange for a professional translations service.

What is the best way to get to Progencell?

Depending on your origin you can fly directly to San Diego, California Airport or to the Tijuana, Mexico Airport. Progencell will provide your personal agent to help you out in every way during your procedure. Progencell can offer a wheelchair lift equipped van to give you transportation service between Airport –hotel and Progencell upon request.

How do I pay for treatment?

We prefer that you partial pay by wire transfer before your treatment. Wire transfer instructions will be provided. You can also pay at the clinic by major credit card or cash. Payment must be made in full before your treatment can begin.

We have financial payment plans. Please contact us for more information.