Each year, around 50,000 patients worldwide require a bone marrow transplant to treat various blood cancers and disorders, with 2,000 of these cases originating from the UK. These transplants are often a critical, life-saving procedure for individuals suffering from conditions like leukemia, lymphoma, and other serious blood diseases. However, finding a matching donor remains a significant challenge due to the need for genetic compatibility.
We spoke with Dr Rahul Bhargava , Director and Chief BMT, Fortis Memorial Research Institute (Gurugram) to understand the the various aspects and importance of raising awareness and encouraging more people to register as bone marrow donors globally. Why is World Marrow Donor Day significant, and how does it help raise awareness about the need for more donors? World Marrow Donor Day raises global awareness about the importance of registering as a donor, as finding a matching donor can be a challenge due to the need for genetic compatibility. By celebrating donors, survivors, and the efforts of registries worldwide, the event encourages more people to join donor registries, helping to increase the chances for patients to find life-saving matches.
It also serves to educate the public on the donation process, dispelling myths and emphasising the relatively simple steps involved, which can ultimately save lives. Can you explain how the matching process works for marrow transplants, and what factors are considered when selecting a donor? The ma.