ABU DHABI: Expectant parents in the UAE now have a unique opportunity to preserve their newborn’s stem cells, thanks to a new private cord blood banking service launched by Abu Dhabi Biobank. This service aims to offer families the chance to secure the stem cells from their baby’s umbilical cord, which can be used in future medical treatments. This initiative is part of the growing awareness and importance of stem cell preservation, providing an accessible and affordable option for families in the UAE.
Globally, stem cells from umbilical cord blood have been used in over 60,000 transplants, and the demand for this life-saving treatment continues to rise. Umbilical cord blood is known for its rich stem cell content, which can be utilized to treat a wide variety of diseases. Stem cell therapies are now being used to treat over 80 diseases, including blood disorders, immune deficiencies, and certain cancers. The increasing recognition of the potential of cord blood in medical research and treatments has made this service a valuable resource for families planning for their children’s health.
The Abu Dhabi Biobank’s new service offers parents the ability to store these life-saving stem cells at a significantly reduced cost. Services are provided at leading licensed healthcare facilities across Abu Dhabi, making it convenient for expectant parents. The cost of storing the stem cells is currently at half the price of existing market rates, which makes it an affordable option for a wide range of families. This is part of a larger effort to make vital healthcare services more accessible to the public, particularly for services that can have long-term health benefits.
The stem cell samples will be securely stored locally for up to 30 years at the state-of-the-art Masdar City facility. This ensures that the samples remain in the UAE, eliminating concerns over international transport and storage. The long-term storage capacity at this facility offers peace of mind to families, knowing that their child’s stem cells are preserved in an advanced, local facility with the highest standards of care and security. The service is expected to be a game-changer for families in the UAE, providing them with both affordable and high-quality stem cell storage options.
