Cord Blood Stem Cells Overview

Stem cells have the power to save lives

Stem cells are the "building blocks of life" that regenerate and form all other tissues, organs, and systems in the body. Ongoing stem cell research is increasing scientific understanding about how healthy cells develop and replace damaged cells.

Given that cord blood stem cells have the unique ability to develop into other cell types, these stem cells hold the potential for treating some of the most common diseases. Initially, cord blood stem cells were primarily used to treat blood cancers, but research scientists are now exploring treatments for a wide variety of diseases including cerebral palsy, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and spinal cord injury.

Umbilical cord blood offers a perfectly natural, controversy-free method of acquiring stem cells. Until recently, the umbilical cord and its stem cells were discarded as medical waste. Today, doctors worldwide recognize that cord blood stem cells can aid in the treatment of numerous diseases by helping to generate healthy new cells and tissue.

The value and benefits of stem cells found in cord blood are clear; storing cord blood ensures that should that need ever arise, you will have a source of stem cells that is an exact genetic match to your baby, with no risk of rejection.

There is also the strong possibility that the stem cells will be a match for siblings. Clinical studies demonstrate that stem cells transplants are more successful when the stem cells come from a family member rather than from a non-related donor.

Private storing your cord blood means it will be available when you and your family need it, allowing treatment to begin almost immediately without losing valuable time searching for a matching donor.

Cord blood stem cells are not only valuable now, but they are also considered one of the most promising medical treatments of the future. Published research studies estimate 1 in 217 children will have a medical condition that may be treated with stem cells during their lifetime.

For additional information on cord blood banking, please contact a cord blood educator online or at 800-490-CORD (2673)