This is a collaborative post with Cells4Life.
After a baby is born, the umbilical cord is typically discarded along with the blood it contains, often without much consideration. However, many parents may not realise the value of this blood, which is rich in stem cells that hold immense potential for medical treatments. Here are three compelling reasons why cord blood banking is worth considering:
Medical Benefits: Cord blood is a valuable source of hematopoietic stem cells, which can be utilised in treating various medical conditions including certain types of leukaemia, lymphoma, and genetic disorders. By storing cord blood, parents are effectively preserving a potential source of stem cells that could be crucial for their child’s or other family members’ future medical needs.
Family Compatibility: Cord blood collected from a newborn is a perfect genetic match for the child and has a significant chance of matching siblings as well. Compared to other sources of stem cells like bone marrow or peripheral blood, cord blood is easier to match to other family members, which can enhance treatment outcomes and reduce the risk of complications such as Graft Vs Host Disease. Opting for a family bank like Cells4Life provides exclusive access to the sample, offering peace of mind and potential access to experimental therapies or clinical trials.
Future Medical Advances: With ongoing advancements in medical research and technology, storing cord blood ensures that these valuable stem cells are available for potential breakthroughs in regenerative medicine and stem cell therapies. As the field continues to progress, stored cord blood may become even more valuable for addressing a wider range of medical conditions effectively.
Ultimately, the decision to bank cord blood is a personal one that should be based on informed discussions and considerations of your family’s unique circumstances and medical history. Every family should have the opportunity to make an informed choice regarding the destiny of their baby’s cord blood, recognizing its potential significance in future medical treatments.
