The world’s first stem cell register was set up by Shirley Nolan in her determination to save her son’s life by finding him a donor. Sadly, at that time it wasn’t possible. But today – 50 years later - it is.

You could save a life by registering your stem cells, it’s as simple as a cheek swab but once you have done it your stem cells will be registered on an international database and just maybe, a match will be found, and you could save someone's life. This can be done in Portugal, and subsequently, if you were found to be a suitable donor, it will probably be as simple as a blood donation.


What is stem cell donation?

Stem cell donation represents a ground-breaking advancement in modern medicine, offering hope for the treatment of various diseases and conditions that were once deemed incurable. Stem cells, unique cells capable of developing into different cell types, hold immense potential for regenerative medicine and therapeutic applications. Let’s start by exploring the multifaceted aspects of stem cell donation, beginning with an overview of what stem cells are and their significance in medical treatments. It will then delve into the intricate process of stem cell donation, detailing the criteria for donor selection and the methods through which stem cells are collected.


How does this treatment work?

To fully understand the significance of stem cell donation, you must first grasp the concept of stem cells themselves. Stem cells are undifferentiated biological cells capable of self-renewal and differentiation into various specialised cells. They can be broadly categorised into three types: embryonic stem cells, which are derived from early-stage embryos, adult stem cells, which are found in various tissues and organs, and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), which are adult cells reprogrammed to an embryonic-like state. Each type of stem cell has its unique characteristics and applications in medicine.

The importance of stem cell donation cannot be overstated; it provides a crucial resource for medical treatments ranging from haematological disorders to regenerative therapies. Historically, stem cell research has evolved significantly since the first successful bone marrow transplant in the 1960s. This milestone marked a pivotal moment in the field, leading to the establishment of donor registries and the burgeoning interest in understanding stem cell biology. The success of these early procedures laid the groundwork for contemporary practices and highlighted the necessity for accessible stem cell sources, thus emphasising the importance of voluntary stem cell donation.

How to register

The process of stem cell donation is meticulous and involves several critical steps to ensure the safety and compatibility of both the donor and recipient. Potential donors must meet specific selection criteria, which often include age restrictions, health evaluations, and lifestyle assessments to minimise risks and ensure the highest quality of stem cells. In Portugal, you need to be between 18 and 45 years old, weigh no less than 50 kilos, and not have received a blood transfusion since 1980. Be in good health. Be willing to give to anyone, anywhere, at any time. You also need to measure more than 1.50 m and understand that you’ll remain on the registry until your 55th birthday.

The screening may involve detailed medical history questionnaires, blood tests, and sometimes physical examinations. You can request a swab here. Once you’ve signed up, you’ll be sent a free swabbing kit in the mail. Follow the instructions, and don’t forget to send it back!

Once deemed eligible, donors can undergo one of several methods for stem cell collection. Normally this will be a simple cheek swab. Another common method is peripheral blood stem cell (PBSC) collection, where donors receive a medication called granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) to stimulate the production of stem cells in the bloodstream. This is followed by a procedure similar to a blood donation, where blood is drawn, and stem cells are separated and collected. This is the most common method, quick, easy and painless. There are other more complex methods, but it’s always your choice to accept or not.


You could save a life

The applications of stem cell donation are extensive and continue to evolve, making it a cornerstone of modern therapeutic strategies. Stem cell therapy has demonstrated considerable success in treating a range of diseases, particularly haematological conditions such as leukaemia and lymphoma, where high-dose chemotherapy is often necessary. In these cases, stem cells can restore the patient’s ability to produce healthy blood cells after aggressive treatment. Additionally, stem cells are being explored for their potential in regenerative medicine, including the treatment of spinal cord injuries, heart disease, and degenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s disease.

You can find a lot of information on the Anthony Nolan trust page but bear in mind that the UK has different age restrictions though the process is the same.

In conclusion, stem cell donation embodies a vital element of contemporary medicine, offering therapeutic avenues for a myriad of diseases and conditions while simultaneously posing ethical questions that society must navigate. The understanding of stem cells, the rigorous processes surrounding their donation, and the broad spectrum of their applications highlight the complexity and potential of this field. As research progresses and technologies advance, the impact of stem cell donation is likely to expand even further, providing hope for countless individuals affected by serious health challenges. Ultimately, fostering a comprehensive understanding of stem cell donation can empower individuals to make informed decisions about participation in this life-changing practice, bridging the gap between scientific advancement and ethical responsibility.


At least take the swab test

If some of this sounds a bit scary, you can simply take the swab test at home. If a donor match is found, you will be helped through the process in every way. To repeat, it’s normally a simple matter of donating blood. You will be put on a worldwide database, and in most cases, if a match is found any travel, etc costs will be covered, both for you and a companion. In Portugal stem cell donation is not yet widely publicised, and it’s normally in the hands of the blood donor centres.

Just think, a simple cheek swab could put you in the position of perhaps saving someone’s life.

Author

Resident in Portugal for 50 years, publishing and writing about Portugal since 1977. Privileged to have seen, firsthand, Portugal progress from a dictatorship (1974) into a stable democracy. 

Paul Luckman