Cord Blood Research Paper

Words: 495
Pages: 2

Since the late 1980's, umbilical cord has been used to treat cancer and blood disorders. Doctors have successfully treated leukemia and anemia with cord blood. Since the year 2000, cord blood has outpaced other stem cell sources. Cord blood cells are used in more than half of all pediatric transplants.

Treatment of Many Diseases
On a global scale, doctors have performed more than 30,000 umbilical cord transplants. In addition to cancer and blood disorders, the cells in umbilical cord blood can be used to treat bone marrow disorders.

Treating Genetic Diseases with Cord Blood
Today, doctors are treating more than 80 diseases with cord blood. When a patient undergoes a cord blood transplant, the stem cells are transplanted into the person's
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Clinical trials are currently being undertaken on more uses for cord blood. In the future, scientists believe that cord blood will be able to treat brain injuries, diabetes and other dangerous health issues. Medical professionals are also confident that a person's own stem cells will soon be able to treat cerebral and other major health conditions.

A Painless Donation Process
There are several differences between collecting bone marrow and cord blood. Before undergoing a bone marrow transplant, the patient must be given anesthesia. No medications are needed for a cord blood donation. The cells are collected from the clamped portion of the umbilical cord. The process does hurt the mother or the baby. A bone marrow donor can develop an infection during the donation process.

Cord Blood Storage
The stem cells in cord blood are in a primitive state, and the transplant is generally less risky. Despite the good points, preserving cord blood can be an expensive process. Cord blood storage gives families a layer of security, and many families view the cost as a necessary expenditure. The cord blood can be donated in vaginal and cesarean births. Before collecting the cord blood, the medical team will make sure that the mother has a safe