Cord Blood Stem Cells

The Other Beneficial Stem Cell

In today's political arena, it is hard to escape the controversy that seems to walk hand-in-hand with stem cell research. There is much hope to be gained through the continued studies of stem cells, and how they may positively benefit debilitating and even terminal conditions. However, the controversy surrounding stem cell research often overshadows another beneficial medical measure, which is cord blood.

Cord blood refers to the blood that remains within the umbilical cord after a baby is birthed. The blood is harvests from the cord and placenta, and stored or banked. This procedure is not in the least bit harmful to the baby or the mother. Cord blood offers yet another good source of stem cells, though they differ from those that are obtained through embryonic stem cells. Nevertheless, stem cells obtained through cord blood harvesting can be used in the treatment of medical diseases.

The stem cells retrieved through cord blood can be utilized in the treatment of cancers, such as Leukemia, in much the same way that bone marrow is utilized; and a lessening chance for rejection taking place.

In order to understand the benefit, it is important to understand what a stem cell is. Stem cells are cells that have the function and ability to change and develop into different types of cells that are found in the body, and are considered to be the bodies natural repair feature.

Though the list of diseases and conditions that can utilize the benefits held in stem cells harvested from cord blood is significant, yielding positive outcomes. Some conditions, which can utilize cord blood stem cells, include: several different types of anemia, certain types of leukemia, and some inheritable conditions.