Healthy Living

Cord blood banking is gaining popularity among a significant number of individuals because of the health benefits that it brings. On the other hand, many are still reluctant to turn to this medical procedure because of the misunderstandings that are associated with it. Below are some of the most prevalent myths that proven wrong.
• Myth: If a family does not have a history of cancer, babies or sibling will not require stem cell transfusion in the future.

• Fact: Families turn to cord blood banking because it somewhat provides a safeguard tool for their children or direct relatives. To note, the cure for most cancers are still unknown and various forms of the said ailment are being developed by more and more individuals at a very distressing rate. In fact, recent studies show that around one in every 650 children is at risk by the time they reach 15. For this reason, opting for cord blood banking is an exceptional move that can save the lives of many.

• Myth: Cord blood is collected from the essential blood of babies.

• Fact: Stem cell cord or embryonic blood can be derived from the umbilical cord. It used to be thrown away but nowadays, the umbilical cord is cut and fastened to get the stem cells.

• Myth: Cord blood can be donated to a public cord blood banking institution and recover them in the future in case emergency health situations arise.

• Fact: This is only possible if the cord blood specimen is not donated to another individual or used for research purposes. It should be remembered that not all specimens are stored and preserved. In fact, about 50 percent of possible donors do not pass the screening process and around 71 percent of donations are rejected because of various health reasons.

• Myth: Doctors and scientists do not use the same specimens that have been donated by patients because they may contain certain diseases.

• Fact: A significant number of autologous stem cell transplantations (stem cells are stored and used on the same person) are performed on a regular basis to treat certain conditions like lymphoma, leukemia, and myeloma, among others. Many reputable researches also add that a patient’s own stem cells are the best tools for treatment.

Conclusion
After reading this article, it can be noted that the negative information that are associated with cord blood transplantations as well cord blood banking are simply untrue and the said practices are very beneficial for those who are affected with life-threatening conditions. For these reasons, they should be embraced and not feared.