Although a topic of continued debate, the donation of blood contained within umbilical cords has become increasingly popular over the last several years. Research has shown potential in the use of cord blood and stem cells to treat various health conditions and diseases. Before deciding to donate cord blood, it's best to understand both the advantages of and disadvantages of doing so.
Because of the health benefits which research studies have determined, the banking of cord blood could indeed have a positive impact on the future health of your family or for others.
It's believed that there is no limit to what the stem cells found within the blood of the umbilical cord can do. Because they are able to adapt to any area of the body where they are placed, the cells can aid in the repair of damaged cells throughout the body. This could prove to be of enormous importance in the treatment of numerous diseases, including cancer and diabetes.
If a child ever requires a transplant, the presence of cord blood might make this procedure much easier than it otherwise would be. The body's own stem cells are guaranteed to be more receptive to being introduced into their host body than any other cell. Outside stem cells could very well be attacked by the body as foreign invaders. The use of personal stem cells could greatly increase the likelihood that a transplant or graft would be successful.
Donating cord blood is not a decision which should be taken lightly. In order to donate cord blood, it's necessary for a woman to have reached the decision by the 34th week of her pregnancy, as the kit must be obtained prior to birth. Also, there is very little likelihood that the blood will ever be used. The odds are approximately 1:1,400 that a family member will use the cord blood. Lastly, the collection of cord blood is quite expensive. A collection costs approximately $1,500 with about $700 worth of set-up costs and an average of $100 per year being spent to store the blood.