Information center: Health Tips
Cord Blood Banking: "The Gift of Life"
by Jeanne Silvers, CMA, ICCE, CLE, CBE
Until recently, one of the least significant products of birth has been the umbilical cord. Over four million are thrown away each year. Research has shown though that the blood that remains in the umbilical cord (cord blood), is a very rich source of stem cells and can be a priceless gift to many patients facing life-threatening diseases such as leukemia and lymphoma. These cells are the same type of cells found in bone marrow. In over 650 transplants, cord blood has been proven to be a safe and effective alternative to bone marrow for treating a variety of cancers and blood disorders.
Some advantages to using cord blood are that cord blood stem cells cause less rejection and require less strict matching between donor and recipient than bone marrow. Cord blood can be collected and banked for future use, thereby reducing the need for donor searches. Cord blood collection is simple, painless and risk free. It is collected in a simple two-to-five minute procedure after the cord is cut. It is then shipped to a laboratory for processing and cryogenic freezing. Having cord blood immediately available allows patients early treatment for their disease and may give them the best odds for survival or cure. Currently in the United States, one-half of the patients searching for a bone marrow match die each year because they are unable to locate a donor in time.
This scientific advancement has created a new birth option for expectant parents: the opportunity to collect and bank their newborn’s cord blood. The cord blood is an exact match for the newborn and may be used to treat other family members as well. Information should be obtained early in the pregnancy, since parents need time to make an informed decision as to whether they should either “family bank” their baby’s cord blood, apply to donate it to a public bank, or discard it. Cord blood proponents are quick to point out the benefits of family banking, particularly if the family has a history of cancer or genetic and immune system disorders. There are fees for family banking, but donating is free. Parents wishing to apply to donate their cord blood must contact the International Cord Blood Foundation at least 60 days prior to their delivery date.
For more information about umbilical cord blood collection, call 1-888-CORDBLOOD, or visit the web site.
