What can disqualify you from donating bone marrow?

Most diseases which may be defined as autoimmune disorders, such as multiple sclerosis, systemic lupus, chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia, will prevent you from donating marrow or blood-forming cells.

Why can’t people over 40 donate bone marrow?

They accept donors between the ages of 18 and 60. But because bone marrow transplant is most successful with younger donors, people ages 18 to 44 are preferred. Donors must be in excellent health. Certain diseases, medications, treatments and weight limits can exclude you from becoming a donor.

Who is eligible for a bone marrow transplant?

At Mayo Clinic, doctors will consider selected patients over 65 years of age, depending on their overall physical health. People who need a bone marrow transplant may have any of several serious conditions, including: Acute lymphocytic leukemia. Acute myelogenous leukemia (AML)

What is Be The Match Registry?

Our registry is the connection between patients searching for a cure and life-saving bone marrow donors. As the largest and most diverse donor registry in the world, we help more patients get the transplant they need.

Can a 15 year old donate bone marrow?

How old do you have to be to donate bone marrow? A person must be at least 18 to donate because donation is a medical procedure and the person must be able to give legal informed consent. Also, because it’s a voluntary procedure a guardian or parent can’t sign a release or give consent for someone under age 18.

Can you donate bone marrow if you are over 50?

People over age 60 may not join the registry. Age guidelines are in place to protect the health of potential donors and to provide the best possible treatment for patients. The age limit is not meant to discriminate in any way.

Who is the best person to donate bone marrow?

A brother or sister is most likely to be a match. There is a 1 in 4 chance of your cells matching. This is called a matched related donor (MRD) transplant. Anyone else in the family is unlikely to match.

How do I know if I am on the bone marrow registry?

To determine whether or not you are on the Gift Of Life registry, you can take a Quick Check quiz. All you have to do is enter your last name, date of birth, and your cellphone number or email address. Then, Gift Of Life will text or email with the response.