What are stem cells?
Stem cells are sometimes called “master cells” because they can form different types of tissues, organs, and systems in the body. Because stem cells can change into other types of cells in the body, they offer great potential for treating and curing some debilitating and fatal diseases. Stem cells are already being used to treat nearly 70 diseases, including leukemia, other cancers, and blood disorders.
Where do we get stem cells?
There are two types of stem cells: embryonic and adult stem cells. Cord blood stem cells are adult stem cells.
Embryonic stem cells are cells produced by an embryo at 4 to 5 days of growth. Embryonic stem cells produce all other types of cells and tissues in the body. Ebryonic stem cells have not been used in any treatment. Studying and using embryonic stem cells is highly controversial because it involves either cloning the cells or destroying the embryo.
Adult stem cells are found in developed organisms. (This means that stem cells in children’s bodies are technically “adult” stem cells.) Adult stem cells are often taken from bone marrow and the umbilical cord upon delivery of a newborn baby. Cord blood is a rich source of adult stem cells. Adult stem cells cannot be used to form all other cells and tissues, but they can produce cells that are being used to treat leukemia and other bone and blood-related cancers.
What is the controversy about stem cells?
The use of cord blood cells is not a source of controversy, as they are adult stem cells. The use of embryonic stem cells is controversial because it involves either cloning or destroying an embryo.
Why are cord blood stem cells so valuable?
Cord blood stem cells can only be collected immediately after delivery of a baby. Collection of cord blood stem cells, unlike other adult stem cells such as those in bone marrow, involves no general anesthesia. Cord blood stem cells do not involve ethical issues. Finally, cord blood stem cells can be used to treat the newborn into adulthood, but they can often be used to treat siblings, parents, and other family members.
How can I collect cord blood stem cells from my newborn?
It is very simple. You call a company such as Cord Blood Registry and enroll. They will send you a collection kit, which you take to the hospital and ive your doctor upon delivery. (Simply tell your doctor ahead of time that you will be banking your baby’s cord blood.) Your doctor will collect the sample and seal the package. A courier will pick it up shortly thereafter. When you enroll online or by phone, provide this cord blood coupon code to save $250: M4125.