Cord stem cell banking -5 Facts You Need To Know
The umbilical cord is the main source for stem cells. Chances are you’ve already heard many people talking about stem cell transplant and why you need to bank them. Do you really, really need it? And if you do, what else do you need to think about before deciding on a bank? You’ll find details and all the information you need to know before you start considering to choose a stem cell bank.
The stem cells pros first
· It’s simple really. With cord stem cell banking, you provide treatment options for the future. You will be able to give your child healthy cells that can portentially treat otherwise life threatening conditions. Stem cells can even treat diseases like leukemia.
· Cord stem cell banking does not involve any injury or pain to the mother or the child. There is no pain involved for the baby since the cells are taken from the umbilical cord that has already been cut out.
· Cord stem cell banking is very helpful when you need transplants for the parents or for a sibling also. Patients who requires bone marrow transplant faces plenty of risks. This is due to the possible rejection of the transplant by the host body. The chances of a stem cell rejection are remote. It can be used in the treatment of diseases like leukemia, brain tumors, cell disorders and congenital disturbances of the immune system.
And now the cons
· Of course, if there are no cases of genetically transmitted diseases in your family, you will not stand to gain a lot from cord stem cell banking.
· It doesn’t come cheap. Be prepared to pay $2000 for the banking, and then roughly $100 per year after that. If you do not really run a risk of a genetic disease, these are costs you need not bear!
How do I choose a Cord stem cell banking facility?
It’s very easy. Once you have decided on banking the stem cells, ask yourself these questions:
· Would you like to go for public banking or a private facility?
· Is the bank stable?
· Consider the number of processed samples at the facility- larger sample handling means that there are more hands involved in the procedure and better infrastructure.
· Can you choose a different facility later?
· What are the costs involved? What are the up front fees as well as the yearly maintenance cost? Are those affordable?
· How will these costs affect your savings in the long run? Are the costs going to be the same or will they change over time?
· Will you need to compromise on anything in order to ensure cord stem cell banking?
While it’s not easy to make the decision, it can be a very vital one. Consider all the factors before you decide on what is right for you.