Modern scientific methods and techniques have made it possible to store and preserve umbilical cord blood, human blood collected from the placenta and umbilical cord, after being detached from a newborn baby. The importance of the core blood is recognized in its utilization as a viable source of stem cells.

The need for cord blood is being recognized for its potential in being able to combat serious illnesses and specific genetic diseases. It is argued that the stem cells obtained from cord blood will be an important catalyst in the treatment of many specific maladies and medical conditions.

Cord blood banking services understand that cord blood may be critical component in future medical processes, and so cord blood harvesting is being promoted (albeit controversially) as a means of preparing for potential diseases and other health-related needs.

Although the use of stem cells and cord blood for transplantation is still in its infancy (no pun intended), its usage in medical procedures and transplants is being touted as a key factor in the success of medical treatments and in patient survival.