A new option for parents: Stem cell collection at birth is now available in the Republic of Moldova
Mothers in the Republic of Moldova have the opportunity to collect stem cells from umbilical cord blood immediately after birth and store them indefinitely at the only specialized bank in the country. This relatively new option allows for the potential use of these cells in treating over 80 serious conditions, including cancer, autism, and diabetes.
Cristina Solcanu is a young mother of two children. For both of them, she chose to collect and store stem cells at birth in a specialized bank for their future safety.
"During my first birth, which was an emergency cesarean section, we were unable to collect all the stem cells we needed. However, with my second pregnancy, the cesarean section was planned. Everything was calm and peaceful, allowing us to collect the complete set of cells that I wanted. Now, I can rest easy knowing that both of my children have their stem cells collected and stored," Cristina Solcanu shared with us.
Cristina found the process of collecting the cells to be straightforward and accessible.
"Thanks to the digital age we live in, everything was very simple. I found a contact number, visited the bank, and they explained the process to me. I was given various collection options, signed the contract, and received the protocol along with the collection materials. I informed my gynecologist, and the entire process was completed with minimal effort on my part," the young mother explained.
The cells are stored in special containers under cryogenic conditions. The temperatures here reach approximately minus 200 degrees Celsius.
The cells have significant therapeutic potential, as they can treat diseases such as cancer or metabolic diseases. The storage period of the cells is unlimited.
If compatible, the stem cells can be used not only for the child from whom they were collected but also to treat diseases in another family member.
"Stem cells from cord tissue are obtained by multiplication and can be used in regenerative medicine, a new field of medicine, which offers opportunities in the treatment of many diseases that were previously considered incurable. Currently, we have five authorized maternity hospitals where we can perform the procedure for collecting biological material," said Cornelia Grosu, executive director of the Cell Collection Bank, for Moldova 1 TV.
The only stem cell collection bank in the Republic of Moldova was established in 2019.
The costs of such a procedure would start at 30 thousand lei.
