E-ISSN 2602-3164
EJMI. 2019; 3(4): 310-314 | DOI: 10.14744/ejmi.2019.22027

The Level of Awareness Among ENT Clinicians About the Studies of Stem Cells in Turkey

Ahmet Hamdi Kepekci1
1Department of Audiometry, Istanbul Yeni Yuzyil University, Vocational Health High School, Istanbul, Turkey; Department of Otolaryngology, Meltem Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey

Objectives: Using stem cells in clinical practices began half a century ago by the hematopoietic stem cells transplantation. Recently stem cells are used instead of hearing aids usage and surgical interventions in the Ear Nose Throat (ENT) area. This study aimed to determine the approaches (knowledge) of ENT physicians in Turkey about the stem cells research. Methods: We have made a questionnaire about stem cells research and the clinical use of stem cells therapies with 122 ENT clinicians who work in Turkey. Firstly, we checked the knowledge level on the stem cells research then measured the willingness to attend any educational courses on stem cells research according to ENT experience. Results: Unapproved stem cells applications in clinical practices are described as risky by %88 of attendants. Still, most of the clinicians (64%) thinks regenerative stem cells technologies will be available to use in ENT clinics within the next decade. Indeed, they agree government should invest more (92%), support hospitals (86%) and scientists about stem cells because of stem cells therapies reduce recovery time of patients and hospital labors (78%). 65% of attendants have not advised their patients about stem cells storage banks yet. However, 83% of clinicians want to participate in a congress, a workshop about stem cells therapy to improve their knowledge level about it. Conclusion: The professional organizations should encourage physicians to conduct training activities about stem cells therapy. Therefore, interdisciplinary meetings, education, and discussing the possible uses of stem cells technologies in clinical applications can stimulate interest amongst ENT clinicians. Keywords: Awareness, ENT clinicians, stem cells


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Kepekci A. The Level of Awareness Among ENT Clinicians About the Studies of Stem Cells in Turkey. EJMI. 2019; 3(4): 310-314

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