What are Stem Cells?

Stem Cells divide to become other types of cells contained in the body. The Stem Cells found in Cord Blood and bone marrow can divide and become red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets.

Stem Cells are currently being used in the treatment of over 40 different cancers, immune deficiencies and genetic disorders. As more research is conducted on stem cells, there is compelling evidence which suggests that

in the future, stem cells will become the basis for treating diseases such as Parkinson’s disease, diabetes and heart disease.

What is Cord Blood?

Umbilical cord blood is the blood contained in your child’s umbilical cord following birth. It is the richest source of stem cells, the building blocks of the blood and immune systems.

How do Cord Blood Stem Cells compare to other sources of Stem Cells?

• There is no risk involved in the collection of cord blood. Collecting cord blood is a very safe and painless procedure.
• Cord blood is much easier to collect and harvest without the risks of general anaesthesia required to harvest bone marrow.
• Cord blood is readily available when needed (if collected and stored at birth).
• Cord blood stem cells can also be used by your family, there is a 25% probability of being an exact match for a sibling, and can potentially be used for parents and grandparents.
• Cord blood has lower procurement costs compared with peripheral blood or bone marrow harvesting.