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Monday, June 05, 2006

What Is Cord Blood?



Considering the possible effects of this new technology, I'm surprised there isn't more public awareness. The senate majority leader Senator Bill Frist R-Tenn.,has given his opinion. He Conducted one of the few interviews I've heard,about this medical breakthrough. He gave credit to President Bush in the Commercial Appeal, for signing a Bill into law. That would in essence, establish a new national registry for cord blood cells. I know this won't get much attention in the Black community, due to it's overwhelming bipartisan support. In spite of the fact that they may initially be, one of the biggest benefactors.Cord blood technology is the extracting of cells from the umbilical cord and placenta after a woman gives birth. These cells have the potential of taking on the characteristics of other cells. This is sort of a compromise, for the stem cell controversy. It provides something for both sides, without abandoning the wishes of either. It aids in the discovery and use, of certain treatments and cures.For those that are pro-life it appeases them as well. It doesn't require the taking of life. It's a win, win situation for all involved. To people who suffer from sickle cell anemia. A disease that overwhelmingly affects the Black community. Sickle Cell causes the red blood cells to form irregularly. Making it difficult for the blood to pass through the body's vessels. This amounts to a life line of sorts, to those who suffer from this blood disorder. One in every 400 Black newborns is affected. Even with the advancements made in the past several decades.Only about half of them will see their 50th birthday. This new technoloy offers effective treatments and possibly cures.People in Memphis should be particularly happy. This city has one of the highest concentrations, of sickle cell in the country. I personally know a couple of people that suffer from the disease. I once encountered a lady that had been affected by this treatment. She didn't know how to effectively communicate, exactly what had happened. The majority of the listeners assumed she was lying. I could see the doubtful looks, on the faces in the audience. I researched it farther, and was pleasantly surprised. Much to my contentment, she was telling the truth. Check out link below :

http://cryo-cell.com/angelvision/index.html

4 comments:

  1. Anonymous7:35 PM

    Thanks for the information. I heard something about this also.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Anonymous10:49 AM

    Hopefully it will open some new doors.

    ReplyDelete