While the subject of cord blood is something which has been at the centre of much criticism over the years, there are many in the medical profession who believe that there are real long term benefits for those in a position to collect and retain sufficient amounts of this unique type of blood.
In simple terms, cord blood is the blood which is taken from the cord of a new born baby just after birth. It has been proven by a number of medical experts that this form of blood is very rich in stem cells which are currently at the centre of another medical quandary. Stem cell research has been ongoing for some time and has been shown, in certain circumstances, to enable the body to re-grow certain organs and reverse medical conditions such as brain damage. The science is very controversial and has not yet gained universal acceptance by the medical world.
The Human Tissue Authority (HTA) have now stepped into the row and stated that all cord blood extractions must be authorised and carried out in a way which does not put the baby or the mother at extra risk. Each future cord blood extraction will need to be authorised by the HTA who will only issue the paperwork if those involved can show that the risk to others involved is minimal and the cord blood can be stored safely.
Many people see cord blood and the stem cells present as a way of attacking diseases such as leukaemia, where they can be used as an alternative to bone marrow transplants which are painful and often difficult to find an exact match.
Many people are grateful that the HTA have stepped into the breach and brought together a more structured approach to the subject. While there are many pros and cons to the subject, research is progressing at lightening fast pace and anything is possible in the future.
