NHS Cord Blood Bank Reaches Milestone, Providing 1,000th Transplant Unit
Bristol, UK – The NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) cord blood bank has announced a notable milestone: the issuance of its 1,000th unit of baby umbilical cord blood for stem cell transplants.This achievement underscores the growing importance of cord blood donation in providing potentially life-saving treatments.
The NHSBT cord blood bank, located in Filton, Bristol, opened in 1996 and is now the fourth largest cord blood bank globally, currently holding nearly 20,000 donations available for clinical use. Cord blood is rich in stem cells, which can be used to treat a range of conditions, including blood cancers, inherited immune deficiencies, and certain types of anemia.
[Image of a scientist opening a freezer storage drum containing stem cells. The image shows a scientist in a lab coat and gloves, with visible research equipment. Credit: PA Media]
“Stem cells from cord blood can be safely stored for years,” said Alex Ross, head of NHS Blood and Transplant’s Cord Blood Bank. “Your baby might potentially be grown up by the time they save a life, perhaps even older than the recipient – it’s a very special way to donate.”
Currently,women giving birth at University Collage hospital in London,Luton and dunstable Hospital,and St George’s Hospital in London can opt to donate their baby’s cord blood after delivery. The collected cord blood is then frozen and stored at -196°C until a suitable match is found for a patient in need of a transplant.
How Cord Blood Donation Works:
Umbilical cord blood is typically discarded after birth.Donating it is a painless process for both mother and baby. The cord blood is collected by trained healthcare professionals after the baby is born and the cord is clamped.
Further Information:
For more information about cord blood donation and eligibility, visit the NHS Blood and Transplant website: https://www.nhsbt.nhs.uk/cord-blood-donation/
Date: January 10, 2024 (Updated from original date to reflect current information)
Sources:
* https://www.bbc.com/news/health-67664999
* https://www.nhsbt.nhs.uk/cord-blood-donation/
* https://www.uclh.nhs.uk/news/cord-blood-donation-reaches-milestone