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?
As we age, the chances of a complication resulting from any medical procedure increases. People over age 60 are at a slightly increased risk of complications during and after donation. 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.