Stem cell transplant is the new buzzword in medical technology. More and more parents are investing in cord blood stem cell banking as means of securing their kid's future. But do you really need to bank your kid's stem cells? Read on, while we tell you whether it is a good idea or not! The main reason why people go for stem cell transplants is because these cells are capable of growing into other types of cell or tissues. This opens up a whole new world of treatments for diseases like Alzheimer's, diabetes and Parkinson's, apart from debilitating blood diseases. So, should you invest in it? - Yes, if your family has a history of genetic disease that can be cured. Though your child will benefit the most from it, should he need it, you as a parent can also benefit from it. Research shows that a patient has more chances of success by transplants of stem cells than he does with a bone marrow. You should consider this more seriously under the following conditions: 1. Susceptibility to leukemia- umbilical cord blood cells have been used to treat childhood leukemia for a time now. However, there has also been lot of improvement in the field of treating adult leukemia with stem cell therapy. Stem cell have been revolutionary in the treatment of conditions like thalassemia and Parkinson's disease. 2. Spinal injuries-Stem cell have also had miraculous results in treating spinal cord injuries. Umbilical stem cell has also been promising in case of a rare genetic disorder called Krabbe disease. 3. Lymphoproliferative diseases - Cord blood stem cells have been widely acclaimed to be highly effective in treating such diseases. - If you are part of a specific community, then yes. Research shows that it is difficult to find cell matches for African Americans, Native Americans or Hispanics. If you need a stem cell match for treatment, you stand more of a chance with your own cells or that of a close relative's. The good thing about the treatment is that they can be performed even without an exact biological match. - If you're adopting a baby at birth and you're unsure of the child's genetic background, it's highly recommended to opt for stem cell banking in case the child ever needs a stem cell transplant. Since you will not be able to provide genetic support for such a kid, it is better to secure her future by banking the cells. - Treatmentsare also no longer confined to your dream. Cell banking facilities across the world have made it possible for you to preserve these precious cells, with the minimum of discomfort and expense. - You can begin treatment as soon as you need it. You do not have to look for matching donors. Also, you are less susceptible to viral infections. With the onslaught of new disease every few days, stem cell banking can be the best gift you provide your child- the gift of life!
Please Rate this Article 5 out of 54 out of 53 out of 52 out of 51 out of 5
Not yet Rated
