One Chance in a Million: Altruism and the Bone Marrow Registry
Theodore C. Bergstrom, Rodney J. Garratt and Damien Sheehan-Connor
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| Article Citation |
Bergstrom, Theodore C., Rodney J. Garratt, and Damien Sheehan-Connor. 2009. "One Chance in a Million: Altruism and the Bone Marrow Registry." American Economic Review, 99(4): 1309–34.
DOI:10.1257/aer.99.4.1309
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| Abstract |
Stem cell transplants save lives of many patients with blood diseases. Donation
is painful, but rarely has lasting adverse effects. Patients can accept transplants
only from donors with compatible immune systems. Those lacking a sibling
match must seek donations from the general population. The probability that
two unrelated persons are compatible is less than 1/10,000. Health authorities
maintain a registry of several million genetically tested potential donors who
agree to donate if asked. We find that the benefits of adding registrants of every
race exceed costs. We also explore the peculiar structure of voluntary public
good provision that faces potential donors. (JEL D64, H41, I11)
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| Authors |
Bergstrom, Theodore C. (U CA, Santa Barbara)
Garratt, Rodney J. (U CA, Santa Barbara)
Sheehan-Connor, Damien (Wesleyan U)
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| JEL Classifications |
D64: Altruism
H41: Public Goods
I11: Analysis of Health Care Markets
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