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Stem Cell Harvesting
Welcome to Stem Cell Harvesting
Welcome to Stem Cell Harvesting where we answer your questions about stem cell harvesting and cord blood banking.
What are stem cells?
Stem cells are primitive cells that can turn into other types of cells, for example skin, liver and nerve.
Research shows that stem cells can be used to help restore function to the immune systems and blood producing systems, where these systems have been damaged by chemo or radio therapy, for example.
What is stem cell harvesting?
Stem cell harvesting or cord blood banking is where cord blood is collected from the umbilical cord and placenta immediately following the birth of the baby. The blood is then screened and frozen for storage for a period of years, normally around 20 to 25 years.
What are the pros and cons of harvesting stem cells?
Pros:
Children with rare deficiencies and hereditary disorders can be treated with cord blood transplants. Possible ways in which the stem cells may be of use later in the child's life include the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, neural regeneration, retinal regeneration, tissue and organ engineering and heart disease. Advances in stem cell technology in future years may result in a wider range of conditions being treatable.
Cons:
The chances of using the cells are, at present, very slim. Cells are currently only stored for 20-25 years as the viability of the stem cells after that period is still being extensively researched. Stem cell harvesting is very costly, with packages usually starting at £1,000, and some parents may feel pressurised into it.
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