Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is characterized by progressive airflow limitation and chronic inflammation of the lungs. This disease affects not only the quality of life but also the lifespan of individuals. Despite the availability of various medications and treatments, COPD remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality.
There is hope for those suffering with COPD
In recent years, there has been growing use of umbilical cord-derived stem cells as a successful treatment for COPD. Umbilical cord stem cells are derived from the Wharton’s Jelly which surrounds and protects the umbilical cord and helps the baby develop.
These cells have the ability to differentiate into various cell types, including lung cells. This characteristic makes them an effective treatment of lung diseases such as COPD.
There are several mechanisms by which umbilical cord stem cells offer therapeutic benefits in COPD.
These cells have potent anti-inflammatory properties, which helps to reduce the chronic inflammation associated with COPD. By reducing inflammation, stem cells can help to protect lung tissue and improve lung function.
In addition to their anti-inflammatory effects, umbilical cord stem cells also have the ability to promote the repair and regeneration of damaged lung tissue. This is achieved by stimulating the growth of new lung cells, which can replace damaged or destroyed cells, leading to improved lung function.
What else can stem cells do?
Umbilical cord stem cells have been shown to have immunomodulatory effects, meaning that they can help to modulate the immune response and reduce the severity of inflammation. This can be particularly beneficial in COPD, where the immune system plays a critical role in the development and progression of the disease.
There have been clinical trials conducted that have investigated the use of umbilical cord stem cells for the treatment of COPD, and the results have been impressive. A number of studies have shown that the administration of umbilical cord stem cells can lead to significant improvements in lung function, as well as reductions in inflammation and oxidative stress.
Umbilical derived mesenchymal stem cells offer a significant step forward in the treatment of this debilitating disease.
What if you decide to live with COPD instead of seeking treatment
On average, people with COPD have a shorter lifespan compared to those without the disease. This is due to a number of factors, including the progressive nature of the disease and its association with other health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, lung cancer, and respiratory failure. The progressive nature of COPD means that over time, lung function continues to deteriorate, leading to increased breathing difficulties, increased risk of infections, and decreased physical activity.
Moreover, COPD is also associated with a higher risk of hospitalization and death due to respiratory failure. People with COPD are at an increased risk of developing respiratory infections, such as pneumonia, which can lead to hospitalization and even death. In addition, acute exacerbations of COPD, where symptoms worsen suddenly, can also lead to hospitalization and can be life-threatening in severe cases.
The cost of living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is reported to be $9981 in the U.S. The NIH states that between 27.1% and 63.7% of the costs are borne by the patient or family as out-of-pocket expense..
The NIH estimates that the average person with COPD misses up to 19.3 days of employment annually contributing to the cost borne by the individual.
What is the cost of stem cell therapy for COPD?
Some Common Expenses Associated with Living with COPD Include:
- Medical treatments: Medications, inhalers, oxygen therapy, and other treatments for COPD can be expensive, especially if they are not covered by insurance.
- Medical equipment: Oxygen tanks, concentrators, and other equipment used to manage COPD can also be costly.
- Doctor visits and hospital stays: Regular doctor visits, hospital stays, and other medical appointments can add up over time.
- Home modifications: Some people with COPD may need to make modifications to their homes to make it easier to live with the disease, such as installing grab bars, ramping, and modifying bathrooms.
- Lost income: People with COPD may need to take time off work due to their condition, which can result in lost income and benefits.
It’s difficult to give an exact cost of living with COPD, as expenses will vary greatly based on the individual’s specific situation. However, it’s important to consider the potential costs and plan accordingly, such as by setting aside funds for medical expenses and seeking financial assistance when needed.
What are the Long-term Effects of Living with COPD
Some of the most common long-term effects of COPD include:
- Decreased lung function: COPD can cause permanent damage to the airways and lung tissue, leading to a decrease in lung function over time. This can cause shortness of breath, wheezing, and a decreased ability to perform everyday activities.
- Chronic respiratory infections: People with COPD are more susceptible to infections like pneumonia and bronchitis, which can further damage the lungs and lead to hospitalization.
- Cardiovascular complications: COPD can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke, as well as cause fluid buildup in the legs, ankles, and feet (edema).
- Muscle wasting: People with COPD often experience muscle wasting, which can lead to decreased strength and endurance, making it difficult to perform daily activities.
- Decreased quality of life: COPD can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life, causing emotional distress, depression, and a decreased ability to participate in leisure activities.
- Increased hospitalization: People with COPD are at higher risk for hospitalization, particularly during flare-ups or exacerbations of the disease.
