Debate: Frozen Cord Blood - Scam or Miracle Cure? |
Cord blood has never been used in Australia |
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Editors published 1/17/2009 1:09:00 PM
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Source: Cord blood 'not used' Evonne Barry , Courier Mail
10,000 Australian parents have spent millions of dollars (AUS $3000-$5700 each) to have their child's cord blood collected, frozen and stored.
Not a single cell has been used so far.
Private companies are charging up to $5700 to store the umbilical cord blood of babies in case they become ill and need a stem cell transplant.
But in the seven years since private collection companies began operating in Australia, no samples have been used for medical treatment.
The companies defend the expense, claiming the benefits will be realised as science progresses.
Currently, donated cord blood is only used to treat patients with blood disorders such as leukemia.
With the science up for debate, a row has started between private operators and some of Victoria's maternity hospitals.
Dr Tony Coulepis, chief executive of the recently merged Biocell and Cellsense, said some public hospitals were robbing parents of choice.
The Royal Women's Hospital is among those disallowing collection of cord blood for private banks.
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