What important role does bone marrow play in your body?

Bone marrow is a soft, gelatinous tissue found in the cavities of some of your bones. It produces all of your red blood cells, most of your platelets, and many of your white blood cells.

Red blood cells carry oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. Platelets help stop bleeding by forming clots. White blood cells fight infection.

Bone marrow also stores iron, which is essential for the production of red blood cells.

As you age, the amount of bone marrow in your body decreases. This means that you may not be able to produce as many red blood cells, platelets, or white blood cells as you once did. This can lead to a number of health problems, including:

* Anemia, a condition in which you don't have enough red blood cells

* Thrombocytopenia, a condition in which you don't have enough platelets

* Leukopenia, a condition in which you don't have enough white blood cells

Bone marrow can be damaged by a variety of factors, including:

* Cancer

* Chemotherapy

* Radiation therapy

* Certain medications

* Infections

* Blood disorders

If your bone marrow is damaged, you may need a bone marrow transplant. This is a procedure in which healthy bone marrow is taken from a donor and transplanted into your body.

Bone marrow is a vital organ that plays an important role in your health. It is important to be aware of the factors that can damage bone marrow and to seek medical attention if you have any symptoms of bone marrow problems.