Online seminars as an information source for direct-to-consumer stem cell therapy

Aim: To attend stem-cell (SC) seminars hosted by US-based direct-to-consumer SC businesses either in person or via online 'webinars' to determine accuracy and regulatory oversight of the advertised SC therapies. Methods: The therapeutic claims, costs, risks, scientific evidence in support of a therapy and any regulatory oversight were collated using pre-established checklists. Participation consisted of one live attendance of a seminar, and following COVID-19 restrictions, review of seven recorded presentations available on the internet from SC businesses. Results & conclusion: None of the SC therapies advertised by direct-to-consumer clinics reviewed were supported by proper clinical evidence nor substantiated by peer reviewed literature.