What are blood stem cells?

At the core of your body's incredible capability to regenerate and heal lies a remarkable type of cell – the stem cell. Stem cells are the building blocks from which all blood cells arise. What makes them so special is the fact that they can turn into any blood cell your body needs — red blood cells, platelets, and different types of white blood cells.

But stem cells don't stop there. They are the only cells capable of generating more than 200 specialised cells, including those forming blood and bone. This unique ability makes them essential for treating many blood cancers and disorders.

The significance of stem cell transplants

For many patients living with blood cancer and blood disorders, a stem cell transplant — often referred to as a bone marrow transplant – represents a beacon of hope. This procedure could offer blood cancer and blood disorder patients a second chance at life. However, finding a matching donor is a complex and challenging process, emphasizing the need for a diverse and extensive pool of potential donors.

Stem cell donation

The sad reality is that many patients with blood cancer or blood disorders are unable to find a sibling match, with 65-75% relying on the generosity of strangers. Four out of ten people in need of a stem cell match will not find one.

DKMS is dedicated to bridging this gap by increasing the donor registry and registering heroes daily. Our donors contribute to more than 47% of all unrelated stem cell transplants in the UK and help us to facilitate hundreds of stem cell transplants annually, both in the UK and worldwide. Join us on this journey. Together, we can change lives.

Learn more: Stem cell donation explained