Understanding Stem Cell Donation

Learn about stem cells and why they're crucial for saving lives

What are Stem Cells?

Stem cells are immature cells that can develop into red blood cells (carrying oxygen), white blood cells (fighting infections), and platelets (controlling bleeding). They are not embryonic stem cells. They come from bone marrow, circulating (peripheral) blood, or umbilical cord blood.

When patients have bone marrow that can no longer produce healthy stem cells due to illness, a stem cell transplant from a donor can help them heal and rebuild their immune system.

The Importance of Diversity

Canada's national stem cell registry should be as diverse as our country. Patients are more likely to find a match from someone who shares their ethnic background. South Asian donors are underrepresented, making it harder for patients to find a match.

By joining the registry, you can help change that and potentially save a life in your community.

Ways to Donate

More than 75% of patients must rely on volunteer donors found through stem cell registries. Here are the three ways stem cells can be donated:

Peripheral Blood Stem Cells (PBSC)

80% of donations

The most common collection method

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Procedure Time

4-6 hours

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Process

  • Non-surgical process similar to donating blood called apheresis
  • Stem cells are separated from the blood and collected
  • Remaining blood components are safely returned to donor
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Preparation

  • Receive daily G-CSF injections for four days prior to donation
  • Injections stimulate stem cell production and release
  • Additional injection may be needed on donation day
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Side Effects & Recovery

  • Minimal risks - apheresis is commonly used for plasma/platelet donations
  • Possible short-term effects from G-CSF: mild bone/muscle pain, headaches, flu-like symptoms
  • Effects typically disappear within 24-48 hours
  • No known long-term side effects

Bone Marrow

20% of donations

Less common collection method

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Procedure Time

45-90 minutes

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Process

  • Surgical procedure under general anesthesia
  • Hollow needle used to collect liquid marrow from pelvic bones
  • Collection amount: 0.5-1.5 litres based on patient needs
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Side Effects & Recovery

  • Some risks associated with general anesthesia
  • Rare complications: infection (treatable with antibiotics), nerve/bone/tissue damage
  • Expected: fatigue, soreness at collection site
  • Most donors released same day
  • 2-3 weeks for full recovery
  • Body replaces donated marrow within 4-6 weeks

Umbilical Cord Blood

Varies of donations

Collected after childbirth

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Procedure Time

Immediate after delivery

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Process

  • Collected from umbilical cord and placenta after baby's birth
  • Usually discarded as medical waste but contains valuable stem cells
  • No risk or pain to mother or baby

All known risks and side effects are thoroughly explained during your information session with a registered nurse and the overseeing physician. We encourage you to ask questions and ensure you're comfortable with all aspects of the donation process.

Learn About the Donation Process