Sidra Medicine and The Pearl International Hospital have signed an agreement to expand access to cord blood banking services for expectant families in Qatar. The partnership allows parents delivering at The Pearl International Hospital to choose to preserve their baby’s umbilical cord blood through Sidra Medicine’s specialized service.
Under the agreement, collected samples will be processed and stored at Sidra Medicine’s GMP facility, which houses Qatar’s only Cord Blood Bank. Cord blood contains stem cells that can be used to treat certain blood, immune and genetic disorders. Researchers are also exploring their potential applications in regenerative medicine.
Prof. Khalid Fakhro, Chief Research Officer at Sidra Medicine, said: “This agreement expands access to an important innovative and specialized service for expectant parents in Qatar. By making clinical-grade cord blood and tissue banking services available to families receiving maternity care at The Pearl International Hospital, we are providing them with the information and support they need to make informed decisions about preserving these valuable biological resources. It also reflects Sidra Medicine’s continued commitment to advancing specialized healthcare services for as many patients and families across the country.”
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The collection is performed after the umbilical cord is clamped and cut and is considered painless and risk-free for both mother and baby. Since collection is only possible at birth, families have a one-time opportunity to preserve the biological material.
Dr. Cem Emir Guldogan, Chief Medical Officer at The Pearl International Hospital said, : “This agreement represents an important milestone in our journey to elevate healthcare standards in the State of Qatar. The Pearl International Hospital has been developed to offer world-class medical expertise, innovative technologies, and an environment that promotes holistic well-being. Our commitment is to provide high-quality, compassionate care that aligns with international best practices while respecting the values of our community.”
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Storing samples locally in Qatar can support convenient access when needed. Sidra Medicine can also facilitate the transfer of stored stem cells to authorized centers in other countries. The agreement represents an expansion of specialized healthcare services available to families receiving maternity care in Qatar.
