For immediate release:
March 24, 2008
State Rep. Welch lauds signing of umbilical cord blood bank law
INDIANAPOLIS —— Indiana will become the latest state to have an umbilical cord blood bank to assist patients with cancer, such as leukemia and lymphoma, and other life-threatening diseases, thanks to legislation authored by State Rep. Peggy Welch (D-Bloomington) that was signed into law today by Gov. Mitch Daniels.
House Enrolled Act (HEA) 1172 calls for the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) to create a non-profit corporation that will create and operate a public umbilical cord blood bank. State Rep. Eric Koch (R-Bedford) was a co-author of the proposal and a staunch advocate for the program.
"Umbilical cord blood is one of the primary sources for cells that are used in bone marrow transplants," Welch said. "It is also a non-controversial source of stem cells for research. The initiative outlined in this legislation would not only create the bank, but also promote public awareness of the benefits that can come from use of umbilical cord blood."
Among the diseases that can be treated with cord blood cells include leukemia, lymphoma and other diseases of the blood, anemia and sickle cell. Trials are under way to determine the effectiveness of cord blood cells in treating multiple sclerosis, breast cancer, juvenile and rheumatoid arthritis, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and some forms of diabetes.
"As you see, researchers believe that umbilical cord blood can be key in finding the cures for diseases that affect the lives of literally millions of people across this country," Welch said. "This legislation will create a place where doctors and researchers eventually can have access to thousands of samples."
Once the program is in place, physicians and hospitals that choose to participate can inform pregnant mothers of the option to donate umbilical cord blood. The blood is collected from the cord after a baby is born. The donated cord blood is then tested and frozen at the bank for future use.
"An Indiana cord bank will attract federal grants, as well as interest from the private sector," Welch said. "As research possibilities increase, we will draw attention from businesses affiliated with life-saving ventures. This can help expand economic opportunities and create jobs around the state."
As a cancer nurse, Welch has had experience in dealing with the heartache faced by patients and families who are out of treatment options. With passage of HEA 1172, it is expected that there will be expanded research that will help patients recover and live full, active lives.
"This legislation has the potential to save thousands of lives and improve the physical health of Hoosiers and the economic health of the state of Indiana," Welch concluded.
— 30 —