[The Dutch Health Council report on haemopoietic stem cells]

The Dutch Health Council advised the government on the use of haemopoietic stem cells in clinical medicine in September 2003. Most stem cell transplantations (SCTs) are performed in closely co-operating centres for haematological intensive care, and these centres are required to have a license from the government. The introduction of non-myeloablative SCT, exploiting the immunological effects of donor T cells, extends the variety of diseases for which SCT is a useful treatment option, as well as extending the age limits. The capacity of the centres appears to be sufficient, but their finances are not. This, together with strict adherence to accepted indications, is probably one of the main reasons why the number of SCTs performed in the Netherlands is rather low as compared to other European countries. The Council stresses that the harvesting and handling of umbilical cord stem cells is a public rather than a private matter, with the purpose of creating a bank for these preparations from which patients may benefit if the need so dictates. The Council pleads for support to advance the basic research on stem cells and the immunological aspects of stem cell transplantation.