The Hospital de Base in São José do Rio Preto (SP), Brazil, has reported a remarkable increase of over 50% in bone marrow transplants over the past five years. This significant spike underscores the importance of the 'Orange February' campaign, which aims to raise awareness about leukemia and the critical need for new bone marrow donors. The campaign emphasizes that registering as a donor is a straightforward process that can potentially save lives, especially for those aged between 18 and 35 in good health who can offer their support to patients in need.

Doctor João Victor Feliciano, head of the bone marrow transplant department at the hospital, reassures potential donors about the safety of the procedure. He explains that a clinical evaluation is conducted, and that having good health and the willingness to help are key factors for anyone considering registration. With the call for donors possibly extending until the age of 60, the campaign encourages young adults to take action in their communities to help those suffering from leukemia and other blood disorders.

Despite the successful increase in transplants, Doctor Feliciano points out that compatible donors remain a challenge due to the vast genetic diversity among the population. This makes it critical not only to recruit a larger number of donors but also to ensure a wide representation of genetic backgrounds to enhance the chances of finding suitable matches for patients needing transplants. The efforts of the 'Orange February' campaign highlight a vital public health initiative aiming to improve outcomes for leukemia patients in Brazil, reinforcing community engagement in this life-saving cause.