We are committed to providing the best possible outcome for patients. NMDP is focused on recruiting people ages 18 to 35 because medical research shows that younger donors are best for patients and provide the greatest chance for transplant success. Because of this, doctors prefer donors in the 18 to 35 age group. If are in good health and willing to donate to any patient in need, you can join the registry online right now. Or, you can join in person at a marrow donor registry drive.
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.
What is the cut off age for being an adult marrow donor?
Everyone on NMDP Registry is critical to saving lives. Once you become a registry member, you are listed on the registry until the age of 61, unless you request to be removed from the registry before then.
As we age, the chances of a complication resulting from any medical procedure increases. 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.
There are other ways to be the cure. Learn how you can get involved with NMDP.