Following action against functional foods and dairy product violations, authorities are now shifting their focus to stem cell products, which are being widely advertised with exaggerated claims and raking in huge profits despite unverified effectiveness.

This was shared by Dr. Nguyen Ngo Quang, Director of the Department of Science, Technology and Training under the Ministry of Health, at the annual scientific conference of Hanoi Post Hospital last weekend.

cap cuu (21).png

Dr. Nguyen Ngo Quang discusses stem cell applications. Photo: Quynh Anh

After reviewing reports on stem cell applications in disease treatment, Dr. Quang stressed that strict quality control of cell sources and derived products before clinical use is essential. Stem cell therapy in Vietnam remains largely unregulated, with many institutions applying it without proper compliance. Misleading advertisements, especially those disguising commercial products as medical treatments, could lead to serious consequences for patients.

Dr. Quang also emphasized that even licensed health facilities must refrain from promoting treatments beyond their actual capabilities.

Many stem cell products, often imported unofficially, are now being advertised online with unrealistic promises and sold at very high prices. Yet the health claims attached to these products lack scientific backing, even though the Ministry of Health has issued production standards and protocols.

After uncovering widespread violations in the supplement and dairy markets, authorities have launched an investigation into stem cell-related products that are advertised with excessive claims and generate large profits.

Dr. Nguyen Van Long, Deputy Director of the Stem Cell and Genetics Center at Hanoi Post Hospital, said mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) offer promising solutions for age-related decline and could help improve quality of life.

IMGL3296 (2).png
Stem cell research at Hanoi Post Hospital. Photo: BSCC

MSCs have the ability to self-renew and differentiate into various cell types such as bone, cartilage and fat. They assist in tissue repair and have been used in the treatment of over 80 diseases, including osteoarthritis, cardiovascular conditions and skin aging. These cells are typically sourced from bone marrow, umbilical cords, fat tissue or placentas.

Clinical trials show that MSCs are safe and can improve heart function in patients with myocardial infarction, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and type 2 diabetes, with no severe side effects. Stem cells activate the body’s natural healing process, regenerate tissue, stimulate collagen production, reduce inflammation and boost organ function, potentially slowing down aging.

However, Dr. Long warned that aging is a complex process involving DNA damage, oxidative stress and chronic inflammation, so stem cell therapy alone may not be sufficient.

He added that large-scale clinical trials to evaluate the long-term safety and efficacy of stem cell treatments are still limited. Issues such as immune response, rejection and tumor risk require further research. Because of this, countries including Vietnam have not approved widespread anti-aging use of stem cells due to safety and ethical concerns.

Dr. Long advised the public to be cautious about online stem cell advertisements, which often lack scientific evidence and could lead to health risks or unnecessary financial loss.

In 2025, Hanoi Post Hospital began a clinical study using autologous mesenchymal stem cells derived from fat tissue to treat age-related decline. The trial was approved by the Ministry of Health and conducted under Good Clinical Practice (GCP) standards. The research focuses on evaluating safety and efficacy, with the goal of improving health and extending the healthy lifespan of older adults.

Phuong Thuy