A sperm donor in Europe carrying a "TP53" gene mutation—a known cancer risk factor—has fathered 67 children, with at least 10 diagnosed with cancers, including leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, sparking urgent calls for stricter global donor screening and tracking protocols.
The donor's sperm was used by 46 families across eight European countries between 2008 and 2015, according to international media reports. So far, 23 children have been confirmed to carry the same genetic mutation, and 10 have developed tumors. The cases came to light only after parents reported illnesses in their children over a decade later.
The European Sperm Bank involved stated the donor passed standard health checks at the time, but noted that TP53 testing was not available during the screening process. The bank claimed it has since notified partner clinics and now limits donors to serving a maximum of 75 families.
Professor Nicky Hudson of De Montfort University urged the establishment of international donor tracking systems to prevent similar tragedies. Multiple European health agencies are investigating affected families, offering genetic testing and medical support. The case has reignited debates over ethical oversight in fertility industries worldwide.
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