Stem Cell Storage FAQ's

As stem cell storage has become a more popular option for parents-to-be, LOREN STOW spoke to the two South African stem cell storage facilities to answer your most burning questions about this possible choice

- Loren Stow

Pregnancy is a time frought with big decisions, and the issue of stem cell storage is one that is bound to come up in conversation more than once. Shrouded in cultural myth, ethical controversy and sheer ignorance, it is easy for parents to be confused as to why they should consider such a futuristic concept, or even try and plan that far ahead, in a time when they are basking in the glow of new life. We had Next Biosciences and Cryo-Save address some of the FAQs to help parents make a more informed choice.

Q WHY SHOULD I STORE MY BABY’S STEM CELLS?

You should consider storing your baby’s stem cells if:

There is a family history of certain diseases that are treatable by stem cells.

There is a sibling with a disease that is treatable by stem cells.

You want to give your baby and family an additional form of medical insurance.

You can afford it, it is definitely an option worth exploring.

You are of African descent or have a mixed-race child as these populations are massively underrepresented in donor registries. There is no public bank in South Africa so people need to search on the global registry, and this is where they are hugely underrepresented.

Q WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BLOOD AND TISSUE STORAGE?