#1: When cryopreserved, newborn stem cells remain viable for many years.
Cord blood is rich in powerful stem cells, which can be cryogenically preserved for many years. Although it was previously thought that stem cells were only viable for 15 years, recent research shows that these cells remain viable and effective even after 27 years, suggesting a longer potential lifespan with ongoing advancements. It is also believed that this viability term will continue to increase with further research.
#2: Cord blood is a perfect match if your child ever needs stem cell therapy.
Stem cell transplants require a very close match between the donor and the recipient. It can be very difficult or sometimes impossible to find that match. especially if a stem cell donation is required urgently to treat an illness. However, banking of cord blood means that there is always a perfectly matched stem cell sample available if it is ever needed in the future.
#3: Future stem cell therapies may require stem cells collected from cord blood.
Stem cell therapy is a rapidly growing area of research. In the future, if your child requires stem cell therapy, knowing that you already have a preserved sample of your child’s own stem cells will mean that lifesaving stem cell therapies will be an option.
#4: Your baby’s stem cells could save the life of another family member.
There is a high likelihood that your baby’s newborn stem cells will be a close match to a sibling, parent, grandparent, aunt, or uncle. If one of your family members (or even yourself) requires a stem cell transplant at a later date, the cord blood of your own child may be a lifesaver.
Traditionally the umbilical cord and the blood left over were discarded at birth. Today, it is well established that both cord blood and cord tissue are valuable sources of stem cells.
Newborn stem cells can only be banked at birth, which makes the choice to preserve your baby’s stem cells a unique opportunity.
