Cover Stem cell specialist Dr Ronald Rigor (Photo: Wesley Villarica)
Stem cell specialist Dr Ronald Rigor (Photo: Wesley Villarica)
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In an exclusive interview, Tatler explored the captivating world of stem cells with Dr Ronald Rigor, a trailblazer in stem cell therapy
We all desire good health—mentally, emotionally and physically. Maintaining physical health is incredibly challenging for older individuals due to physiological changes, chronic conditions and limited medical resources.
However, advancements in modern technology offer new hope. One promising development is using stem cells, which act as a natural repair system. Beyond providing a youthful appearance, stem cell infusion can rejuvenate the body, leading to improved health and a longer, more vibrant life.
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Cell Block
Above Infrared Pods are a system that combines dry heated air, radiant infrared heat, vibratory massage, aromatherapy and salt air. They are part of the stem cell therapy procedure
Above The Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber is a pressurised environment where patients breathe pure oxygen. Its use is part of Dr Rigor's stem cell therapy
Infrared Pods are a system that combines dry heated air, radiant infrared heat, vibratory massage, aromatherapy and salt air. They are part of the stem cell therapy procedure
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The use of stem cells dates back to the Sixties when Canadian biologists James Till and Ernest McCulloch identified blood-forming stem cells (hematopoietic stem cells) found in the bone marrow. Early applications focused on bone marrow transplants. However, due to the intense pain caused by the long needle used in the procedure and the limited number of young stem cells that could be harvested, further research was conducted to identify a better source.
Then came adipose tissue, or body fat. Much like bone marrow, these fat cells are taken from patients and harvested through liposuction from various body parts, such as the belly or thighs. This procedure is much easier and more convenient for patients seeking stem cell infusion. However, the same problem persists—the older the patient, the fewer young stem cells can be collected.
What could be the best option for obtaining young stem cells? Medical research turned to the embryo, which is formed when an egg and sperm cell unite. While they’ve identified the best and youngest stem cells, this method cannot be practised due to the moral and ethical issues surrounding the process required to collect the cells.
This is where umbilical cord stem cells come into play. These cells are the closest to those found in the embryo, and they are also easy to obtain, given the number of babies born in the country each year. The umbilical cord is typically discarded after birth, making it an abundant resource that can be harvested easily without any ethical concerns.
“When bone marrow and fat stem cells enter the body, they seek out any damage. However, they move slowly because they’re old and tired—not young anymore. The umbilical cord, on the other hand, is different. When these stem cells enter the body, they’re young and move quickly,” Rigor stresses.
Bringing It Home
Above Rigor believes that the benefits of stem cell therapy outweigh the side effects
Rigor believes that the benefits of stem cell therapy outweigh the side effects
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While many doctors in the country offer stem cell therapy, Rigor stands out as one of the top specialists, having practised this field since 2012—13 years and running. His impressive background is a testament to his expertise, having studied at medical schools in the Philippines and New York. After completing his medical degree in Brooklyn, he returned to the Philippines for dermatology training.
Rigor began his career as a dermatologist in the country in 2001. However, upon realising that several prominent dermatologists were already practising here, he decided to return to the US for further training in internal medicine. Afterwards, Rigor practised dermatology and cosmetic surgery until 2012.
His first encounter with stem cells was almost like love at first sight. Rigor was reading journals to stay updated on the latest medical developments when he noticed that stem cells were becoming a hot topic. Initially, he was just curious, until that curiosity soon led to action. He knew then and there that he had to experience stem cell therapy firsthand.
After trying it, he was inspired to incorporate stem cell therapy into his practice alongside dermatology.
Since then, even Rigor’s closest friends have sought treatment from him in Los Angeles, where he was based. In 2021, Rigor flew back to the Philippines for a vacation amid the pandemic. Seeing the high demand for treatment eventually led Rigor to open a clinic in the Asian Century Center in Bonifacio Global City. While he continues to practise stem cell therapy, dermatology, and dermatological surgery in Los Angeles, he focuses solely on stem cell therapy in the Philippines.
Today, Rigor’s stem cell treatment caters to a wide range of individuals, both with and without conditions. This includes people with autism, chronic degenerative disorders or anyone seeking the treatment for its anti-ageing properties. While stem cell treatment won’t reverse autism, it can help improve focus and reduce tantrums in individuals with the condition.
Although the results can’t be directly measured, patient progress under stem cell therapy can still be tracked through DNA analysis, which checks the health of all organs. This test helps determine a person’s biological age—the age of their cells and tissues—compared to their chronological age. The lower the biological age, the healthier the organs.
“It all depends on the patient’s goals and what they want to be treated for. This is not a treatment to feel good. If you only want to feel good, stem cell therapy isn’t necessary,” says Rigor.
Since a patient’s health and lifestyle influence biological age, infusing stem cells can help lower it by repairing body parts that need restoration.
So, is everyone suitable for stem cell therapy? No, according to Rigor. People with active cancer, HIV, AIDS, severe kidney or liver failure, or those undergoing chemotherapy are not eligible for the treatment due to their already weakened immune systems.
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Who needs it?
The doctor shared that individuals aged 30 and above should undergo stem cell treatment, as this is when the body starts to lose stem cells. Undergoing stem cell therapy at 30 or older can help prevent such illnesses and diseases.
Rigor offers a comprehensive, step-by-step process and a complete stem cell therapy package.
The first step is the consultation, during which a complete assessment of the patient’s health status is conducted. This step is crucial for understanding the patient’s health and identifying concerns that need to be addressed, all of which will be compiled into a personalised health plan. Next, an optical three-dimensional body scanner generates a report on the patient’s body shape, posture, composition and shoulder function.
Afterwards, a DNA biological age test will be performed using the TruAge COMPLETE epigenetic test to determine the patient’s age at a cellular level. A series of diagnostic tests will be conducted to complete the assessment stage, including clinical laboratory tests and other necessary medical examinations. This final step is essential to identify any medical conditions that must be addressed.
Once the assessment is complete, the patient can undergo stem cell therapy, during which mesenchymal stem cells—cells that can differentiate into various specialised cell types—are infused through a medical procedure. This involves introducing specialised stem cells into the body to help repair and replace old and damaged tissues. It also helps modulate the immune response.
In addition to stem cell therapy, Rigor’s clinic also offers automated therapeutics, which use advanced machines for healing. Their services include Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber, a pressurised environment where patients breathe pure oxygen; Shockwave Therapy, a non-invasive procedure that uses acoustic shockwaves to stimulate healing; the Cryotherapy Chamber, which utilises the science behind exposing the body to ultra-low temperatures; Infrared Pods, a system combining dry heat air, radiant infrared heat, vibratory massage, aromatherapy and salt air; and Float Therapy, where patients relax in a sensory deprivation tank to achieve a meditative state.
After the patient undergoes all the treatments, vitamins and minerals that may be lacking or need replacement are prescribed to aid healing further and boost energy.
The final part of the treatment is hormone therapy, which alleviates common symptoms of ageing by introducing specific hormones to replace those that have become deficient due to age or certain medical conditions.
Rigor’s team secures a viability certification before shipping the cords from his laboratory in Los Angeles to Metro Manila to ensure the quality, purity and viability of umbilical cord stem cells before they are used in treatments. The cords are stored in refrigerators at sub-zero temperatures throughout the journey and are transferred directly to a freezer upon arrival. The certification includes the date the cords were harvested, the number of viable cells and negative test results for bacteria and viruses.
Pros and Cons
Above The machine is used for Float Therapy, where patients relax in a sensory deprivation tank to achieve a meditative state. It is part of Dr Rigor's stem cell package
Above The Cryotherapy Chamber utilises the science behind exposing the body to ultra-low temperatures. It is also part of the stem cell therapy package
The machine is used for Float Therapy, where patients relax in a sensory deprivation tank to achieve a meditative state. It is part of Dr Rigor's stem cell package
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Like most medical treatments, stem cell therapy comes with potential side effects. During the treatment, patients may experience mild headaches, nausea, vomiting, palpitations, diarrhoea and shivers. “I see it occasionally, but it’s still mild side effects even if I see it all the time. The benefits outweigh the side effects,” says Rigor.
Rigor foresees breakthroughs in umbilical cord stem cells in the future as a scientist from his team continues his research. More and more combinations of stem cells are emerging, most of which are stronger and more powerful, possibly even capable of helping treat more severe conditions, such as retinal diseases and heart failure. He is optimistic about the significant improvements in the quality and quantity of available stem cells, which have increased from millions to billions.
As a dedicated physician in the Philippines, Dr Rigor is committed to reshaping healthcare. With the support of his lab and a scientist in Los Angeles, he remains at the forefront of stem cell research, exploring their potential to enhance health and extend life.
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Credits
Photography: Wesley Villarica
About
Jessica grew up writing letters for everyone, on every occasion. Little did she know that her hobby would eventually turn into a true passion. She believes that content should be relatable yet factual, engaging yet straightforward.
Work
A journalism graduate, Jessica never stops learning and honing her craft. She began her career as a Global Content Editor for a travel company, inspiring readers and travellers to explore the world. Currently, she writes on topics ranging from entertainment, health, sports and travel to in-depth stories about influential and impactful personalities.
For any leads, you may reach her through jessica.zapata@tatlerasia.com via email.
