The PSDBP's Position on Stem Cell Therapy for Neurodevelopmental and Behavioral Disorders

The following statement from the Philippine Society for Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics was read by Dr. Alexis Reyes on 27 October 2013 at the Philippine National Autism Conference, after an enlightening presentation by Dr. Antonio Dans on “The Truth About Stem Cell Therapy.”

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The society acknowledges the potential of using stem cell therapy as a treatment option for developmental disabilities. However, there is currently no strong scientific evidence to recommend the use of stem cells as treatment for neurodevelopmental disorders, developmental disabilities and central nervous system disorders including but not limited to autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, global developmental delay and intellectual disability. Since the long term safety and effectiveness of the use of stem cells in humans have not been established at this time, its use for these conditions should be confined to well-designed clinical trials that include the necessary ethical, scientific and regulatory controls. At present, the society strongly encourages the use of evidence-based interventions for developmental and behavioral conditions, under the guidance and recommendation of a Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrician or Neurodevelopmental Pediatrician duly board certified to practice in the Philippines.

This position statement was made after careful study by the PSDBP Research Commitee Task Force for Stem Cell Therapy Position Statement, whose members include:

Maria Michiko C. Baloca, MD
Francis Xavier Daniel M. Dimalanta, MD
Annah Rebecca V. Doroja, MD
Cindy C. Llego, MD
Jacqueline O. Navarro, MD
Maria Isabel Osabel-Quilendrino, MD
Jan Harold D. Sia, MD
Lourdes Bernadette S. Tanchanco, MD

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