Private cord blood banks notwithstanding, a public pool of cord blood is required in India, opined Prof. Sir Sabaratnam Arulkumaran, former president of the British Medical Association, here on Sunday.
Prof. Arulkumaran was the keynote speaker at a medical conference organised by Fehmi Care Hospital. The conference witnessed presentations on current and future problems in maternal health and gynaecology, alongside discussions on technology that is aiding diagnosis and treatment. Prof. Arulkumaran spoke about the potential of stem cells for gynaecology.
“The tested use of stem cells includes marrow replacement, but efforts to regenerate tissue include that of uterus and vagina from stem cells obtained from cord blood,” he said.
The former president of Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists also explained that stem cells can be used for metabolic disorders in foetuses. “Stem cells can be put into fetal liver if osteogenesis is detected in the foetus. These cells will zone into the bone and differentiate into bone cells,” he said. Two such cases treated were also discussed by him.
When asked how feasible stem treatment in India is given that it is largely restricted to private healthcare settings and is affordable for middle and higher-income groups, Prof. Arulkumran said he hoped that would change.
“Chances of using cord blood that is stored privately are so rare. If one then donates to the general pool of blood, then any baby or individual can get it. The blood can be readied and at a push of a button, it can be retrieved,” he added, suggesting that every State could have a public registry for storing cord blood that could be made available to anybody who needs it.
Dr. L. Fahmida Banu of Fehmi Care Hospital said that laparoscopic techniques have advanced, allowing diagnosis and treatment in one visit to the physicians. The conference was inaugurated by a 4.5 foot robot, which welcomed the delegates and dignitaries.
Chances of using cord blood that is stored privately are so rare. If one then donates to the general pool of blood, then any baby or individual can get it.
Sir Sabaratnam Arulkumaran
