Knowledge, Acceptance, and Willingness to Undergo Stem Cell Therapy Among Patients with Spinal Cord Injury in Pakistan: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: SCI is one of the most devastating neurological disorders that lead to permanent disabilities and reduced quality of life of an individual. Despite the fact that stem cell treatment is not yet clinically approved, rising media reports and advancements in science have impacted the mindset and expectations of individuals. It is essential to know about patients' awareness, acceptance, and willingness towards undergoing treatment using stem cells for further policy-making purposes.

Objective: To assess the level of knowledge, acceptance, and willingness to undergo stem cell therapy among patients with spinal cord injury attending rehabilitation centers in Pakistan and to identify factors associated with treatment acceptance.

Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2025 to April 2026 at rehabilitation centers and tertiary care hospitals in Lahore, Pakistan. A total of 250 patients with chronic spinal cord injury were recruited through consecutive non-probability sampling. Data were collected using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire assessing demographic characteristics, clinical history, knowledge regarding stem cell therapy, acceptance of treatment, and willingness to undergo therapy.

Results: Among 250 participants, 61.2% had heard about stem cell therapy, while only 28.8% demonstrated adequate knowledge regarding its indications, benefits, and limitations. Overall, 74.4% of participants expressed acceptance of stem cell therapy, and 68.8% reported willingness to undergo treatment if it became available. The majority of participants believed that stem cell therapy could improve mobility and independence, although concerns regarding cost, effectiveness, and safety were commonly reported.

Conclusion: Most patients with spinal cord injury in Pakistan demonstrate positive attitudes toward stem cell therapy and express willingness to undergo treatment. Educational interventions and evidence-based counseling are necessary to ensure realistic expectations regarding stem cell therapies and future regenerative medicine approaches.