Who can become a stem cell donor?

Anyone who meets the health requirements, lives in the Netherlands and are between 18 and 35 (inclusive) can register as a stem cell donor at no cost.

The minimum age to become a stem cell donor is 18. This is laid down in law. The maximum age is 55. From the age of 56, donors are automatically removed from the register. This is because the quality of stem cells declines noticeably after that age, while the risks associated with stem cell donation increase.

Research shows that stem cells from younger donors (preferably those aged between 18 and 35) lead to better transplant outcomes for patients. Registration as a stem cell donor is free of charge for people aged 18 to 35. For those aged 36 to 55, a one-off contribution of €35 is requested to cover the cost of registration.

Health
When completing the registration form, you will be asked a number of questions about your health. For example, whether you have ever had any form of cancer, whether you have an autoimmune disease, or whether you have any other medical conditions. Your answers determine whether you can proceed with your registration as a stem cell donor.

You can become a donor regardless of your sexual orientation or gender.

If you are identified as a potential match, you will undergo a more extensive medical screening. It is possible that, following this screening, you may still be found unsuitable to donate.

We apply medical criteria because we are responsible for the safety of our donors. No one benefits if avoidable complications arise.

 

3 Frequently Asked Questions

I take medication. Can I still become a stem cell donor?

At the time of registration, you won't be asked ask about medication use. There may be a long period between registration and an actual call to donate. Therefore, when you are identified as a potential match, you will be asked to complete a detailed medical questionnaire.

Taking paracetamol, the contraceptive pill, or medication for ADD or ADHD is generally not a problem. In some cases, however, people who use other (daily) medication may not be eligible to donate stem cells. If you are unsure whether you qualify, you can contact us before registering to check.

What medical questions are asked on the registration form?

On the registration form, you are asked to answer the questions below with ‘yes’ or ‘no’. Answering ‘yes’ to one (or more) of the questions does not necessarily mean that you cannot become a stem cell donor. Further explanation is provided with each question.

  • Have you ever received a transplant from a donor?
  • Do you have, or have you ever had, cancer?
  • Do you have severe asthma?
  • Do you have (risk factors for) cardiovascular disease?
  • Have you ever had thrombosis or a pulmonary embolism?
  • Do you suffer from severe migraines?
  • Do you have a serious inherited blood disorder and/or an increased tendency to bleed or form clots?
  • Do you have, or have you ever had, an autoimmune disease or other inflammatory condition?
  • Do you have another serious medical or psychiatric condition for which you are regularly monitored by a doctor, require ongoing medication, and/or are limited in your daily functioning?
  • Do you have an active hepatitis B, hepatitis C, syphilis or HIV (AIDS) infection?
  • Are you at increased risk of hepatitis B, hepatitis C, syphilis or HIV (AIDS)?
Is there a BMI limit for stem cell donation?

There are no BMI limits at the time of registration. However, please note that if you are called as a potential match, you may be found ineligible during the medical screening if your BMI is too low or too high.