Frequently Asked Questions
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What are stem cells and how do they help people? Stem cells are the production units in the human body which produce all other blood cells (red cells that carry oxygen, white cells that fight disease, and platelets that help blood clot). Scientists have discovered that umbilical cord blood is a very rich source of these valuable stem cells. The stem cells can be extracted from the umbilical cord painlessly and risk free after the baby is born. Furthermore, stem cells from the umbilical cord blood have undifferentiated characteristics, making them compatible with a greater number of people in terms of HLA matching. Stem cells from the umbilical cord can be obtained immediately after the safe birth of the baby and cryogenically stored after processing so that they will be available when needed. Stem cells from the umbilical cord offer the advantages of stem cells obtained from bone marrow while eliminating many of the disadvantages.
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