Updated: Oct 20
Medically reviewed by ChinaCureLink Team
Table of Content
Introduction
Patients researching interstitial lung disease (ILD) may encounter airway basal stem cell therapy as an emerging treatment option. In China, this therapy is currently available through the Boao Lecheng medical-access pathway in Hainan as a second-batch approved project. This guide explains what the treatment is, who may be considered, its estimated cost, and what international patients should know before pursuing it.
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What Is Airway Basal Stem Cell Therapy?
Airway basal stem cell therapy uses basal stem cells from the airway epithelium. These are adult stem cells associated with the airway's epithelial tissue.
For this treatment, airway basal epithelial stem cells are used as the therapeutic cell type and administered by injection. The treatment is being explored in the context of progressive interstitial lung disease, with access determined through the designated medical pathway and individual physician assessment.
Clinical evidence for stem cell-based approaches in ILD remains under evaluation. Availability through a regulated medical-access pathway does not by itself establish treatment effectiveness or guarantee an individual outcome.
Is Airway Basal Stem Cell Therapy for Interstitial Lung Disease Available in China?
Yes. Airway basal stem cell therapy for Interstitial Lung Disease is available through the Boao Lecheng medical-access pathway in Hainan, China.
The treatment is included in the second batch of approved Boao Lecheng projects, with registration in 2025 and a low-risk regulatory classification. This pathway provides access through an approved project in the Hainan Boao Lecheng area rather than establishing general nationwide availability.
Patients considering treatment should therefore distinguish between access through the Hainan pathway and standard nationwide approval in China. Treatment remains subject to the hospital's admission requirements and medical assessment.
Where Is the Treatment Offered?
The treatment is offered at Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Ruijin Hospital Hainan Hospital (Hainan Boao Research Hospital) in Hainan.
Technical support is provided by Suzhou Jimerris Medical Technology Co., Ltd. The cell type used is basal stem cells of the airway epithelium (adult stem cells).
Who May Be Eligible?
Eligibility is limited to patients with progressive interstitial lung disease who have been clinically diagnosed.
Specific admission criteria and treatment suitability are determined through a face-to-face evaluation by the attending physician. The article cannot determine whether an individual patient meets those requirements.
Final eligibility is determined by the treating medical team after a face-to-face consultation and review of the patient's medical records.
How Much Does It Cost?
The estimated cost is ¥150,000 (approximately US$22,300) per injection, based on a reference exchange rate of about ¥6.72 per US$1.
The stated treatment price does not necessarily include consultation, hospitalization, translation or coordination, or travel expenses. Patients should confirm the full scope of the price and final charges directly with the hospital before making travel arrangements.
Why International Patients May Consider This Option
For some international patients with progressive ILD, access to an airway basal stem cell therapy through China's Boao Lecheng pathway may provide another option to discuss with qualified specialists.
The key consideration is the access pathway: this treatment is available through a specific approved project in Hainan, rather than being presented as a nationally approved ILD treatment throughout China. Patients can use a specialist consultation to understand the admission criteria, treatment process, potential benefits and risks, and available alternatives.
How ChinaCureLink Can Help Patients Access This Treatment
We help international patients explore available treatment options and facilitate communication with appropriate medical specialists. Patients should discuss potential benefits, risks, eligibility, and alternatives directly with qualified physicians. ChinaCureLink does not represent or endorse the treatment technology, manufacturer, or hospital.
Case review: We collect relevant medical history and COPD-management records to help determine whether a case is appropriate for physician review.
Hospital coordination: We help connect patients with the treating team at 2-3 Eligible Hospitals in for an initial assessment.
Online consultation before travel: Patients can discuss potential eligibility, the procedure, and expected next steps with the medical team remotely before committing to international travel.
Coordination support: Depending on the case, this can include translation assistance, appointment scheduling, and logistics coordination.
Considering This Treatment in China?
Before planning travel, speak with a qualified specialist to determine whether the treatment is appropriate for your condition and whether you meet the medical eligibility requirements.
ChinaCureLink can help international patients arrange a specialist review and explore the treatment pathway in China.Request a Medical Review / Speak With a Specialist
Get a Second Opinion Before Fly to China
For suitable cases, ChinaCureLink can then coordinate an online consultation with the specialist to discuss the technical treatment details directly. The purpose is to help the patient understand which treatment option and which specialist center may be most appropriate before making an international treatment decision.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is airway basal stem cell therapy for interstitial lung disease available in China?
Yes. It is available through the Boao Lecheng pathway in Hainan as a second-batch approved project. Access is limited to the relevant approved pathway and hospital and is subject to medical evaluation.
How much does airway basal stem cell therapy cost in China?
The estimated cost is ¥150,000, or approximately US$22,300, per injection. Patients should confirm the final price and what it includes with the hospital.
Who may qualify for airway basal stem cell therapy for ILD?
Patients with progressive ILD who have been clinically diagnosed may be considered. Specific admission criteria and suitability are determined through a face-to-face evaluation by the attending physician.
Can international patients receive this treatment in Hainan?
International patients can explore the treatment pathway through the designated hospital, subject to its admission requirements and physician assessment. A consultation before travel can help determine the appropriate next steps.
About ChinaCureLink
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Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and is not medical or financial advice. Treatment eligibility, protocols, and costs vary by individual case — confirm specifics with a coordinator and treating physician before making any decisions.
