Umbilical Cord Blood Banking?

Maestro writes "There must be many parents (and soon-to-be parents) here at Slashdot. What are your thoughts on umbilical cord blood banking? This seems like a major question for our newborn; the question is almost as stressful for us as naming the baby. Given Obama's stance on stem cells, the topic is timely. My understanding is that while the current uses for cord blood are limited, the sky's the limit for the future of stem cell therapies. But with the initial cost over $1000, and ongoing yearly fees, is it worth it?"

Comments

Re:Done

[dargaud]

Correct. There are two types of cord blood / placenta banks: those where you store it for yourself in case you need it (expensive, 1% chance it'll be used). And those where it's stored anonymously for compatible needing people (free, 100% chance it'll be used). Guess which system is used in the US ? And which one is used in Europe ? I thought so.