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How LGBTQIA+ support spreads hope

Stand proud. Save lives.

A group of people holding up signs in front of a tent at a pride event.
NMDP staff at Pride event

NMDP℠ celebrates Pride 2025.

Whoever you love, and however you identify, you are welcome and needed as a potential blood stem cell donor. If you’re healthy and between 18-40, you have the power to give hope to thousands of patients living with blood cancer or disease—and potentially save a life one day. Together, we create the future we fight for: a world where every patient can receive their life-saving cell therapy. 
It’s a common myth that gay men and other members of the LGBTQIA+ community can’t join the donor registry—but the reality is that they can. Everyone is welcome to join and there are only a few medical reasons that could disqualify someone from donating blood stem cells. To further encourage transparency and donations from people of all backgrounds, you won’t be asked about your sexual orientation when signing up. NMDP celebrates your willingness to contribute and give your life-saving cells to a patient.

Your donation could be the key to a cure

For the best chance of a successful transplant, patients need to match a donor with similar genes called human leukocyte antigens (HLAs). These genes are passed down from both biological parents, which means a patient’s best opportunity for finding a match is a donation from someone of the same ethnic background.

Members of the LGBTQIA+ community are encouraged to register as blood stem cell donors. Everyone aged 18-40 who’s in good health and willing to donate brings us one step closer to finding a match for a patient with a life-threatening blood cancer or blood disorder.

Have questions? Get the facts about donating.

Join the registry and save lives (Opens in a new tab)

Can gay men donate bone marrow or peripheral blood stem cells?

Yes, gay men can donate peripheral blood stem cells or bone marrow. If identified as a match for a patient, members will complete a health history questionnaire as required by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ensure both donor and recipient safety. The health history questionnaire does include questions about sexual behavior. This information isn’t used to exclude individuals from donating but is offered to a patient’s doctor to assess potential risks for the patient.
A diverse group of individuals stands under a tent, showcasing a sign that reads, "The power to save lives is in your hands."

NMDP BioTherapies℠

If you're a match for an NMDP BioTherapies opportunity, we'll discuss your health history. During this conversation, you might find out that you can't donate for NMDP BioTherapies but could still be eligible to donate to a patient in need of a blood stem cell transplant.

The medical guidelines and regulations, which are in place to protect both you as a potential donor and the patients, can vary due to Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and international requirements. While it can be disappointing to learn you can't donate, we understand and are committed to advocating for our donors, especially regarding regulations that impact the LGBTQIA+ community. If you're not eligible for NMDP BioTherapies, you'll remain on the NMDP RegistrySM unless you request to be removed, and you may still be able to donate to a patient in need of a blood stem cell transplant if you're a match!

Find out more about NMDP BioTherapies (Opens in a new tab)
  • People standing and socializing around tables in an outdoor courtyard in Brooklyn, New York.

    Other ways to get involved

    If you’re unsure about being a donor, there are many other ways to show your support. From funding groundbreaking research to hosting a registry recruitment event, your unique talents ensure we’re able to help more patients.
    Join the movement
  • Three diverse young adults swabbing their cheeks.

    Do something life-saving

    You hold the key to changing lives. Sign up to become a potential blood stem cell donor, and you could unlock someone’s cure.
    Join the registry (Opens in a new tab)
  • Donor stands with NMDP sign: 'I helped save a life'

    Help inspire others

    Donors, patients, caregivers, supporters…we want to hear from you! Share your story with us and others in the community by filling out our Publicity Consent Form.
    Get started