ANSWERS: 1
  • With recent developments in stem-cell research and disease, a number of companies have begun programs that allow families to store umbilical-cord and placental blood for future medical use.

    Explanation

    Cord-blood banks collect and store the blood from a baby's placenta and umbilical cord. Families pay a fee for the procedure and storage.

    Purpose

    Cord blood can be used to help treat diseases of the blood and immune system, such as leukemia and certain other types of cancer.

    Advantages

    Cord blood is richer in stem cells than other blood and causes fewer side effects than bone-marrow transplants. A child who develops a blood or immune-system disease can be treated with his own stem cells rather than having to search for a matching donor.

    Potential

    Research continues into the many diseases that could potentially be treated with stem cells from cord blood. Some of these currently have few treatment options, such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and spinal injuries.

    Warnings

    Families who choose to store cord blood should do so for each child, since each individual's stem cells are unique. The possibility of effective treatment is much greater with your own stem cells rather than with donated tissue, even from an immediate family member.

    Source:

    Cord-Blood Banking and Stem Cells

    Benefits of Family Banking

    More Information:

    Association of Family Cord Blood Banks

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