In addition to the time for family barbecues, summer vacations and Independence Day celebrations, July is also recognized as Cord Blood Awareness Month by a society of the American Hospital Association.

Despite emerging research exploring the use of cord blood stem cells to treat conditions such as brain injury, diabetes, hearing loss and heart defects, cord blood awareness is low.  In fact, many pregnant women today don’t learn about the option to save their newborn’s cord blood. According to research published in the Journal of Reproductive Medicine, 3 out of every 4 pregnant women consider themselves only “minimally informed.”  

What’s important to know is that cord blood education is considered good health policy.  In 2004, the Institute of Medicine recommended that all pregnant women should be educated about cord blood stem cells early enough in pregnancy that they can make an informed decision about the options to preserve these valuable cells.  In the last few years, 16 states have passed laws supporting better cord blood education in line with the Institute’s guidance.

In honor of Cord Blood Awareness Month, you can help spread the word about the medical value of cord blood stem cells. While you’re enjoying the long summer days, take a moment to tell any expecting friends and family members about the importance of preserving these valuable cells. In doing so, you may empower others to make informed choices regarding their family’s future health.

Read CBR’s press release commemorating Cord Blood Awareness Month