A shocking case involving a Danish sperm donor, known only as “Kjeld”, who carries the genetic mutation TP53 that’s known to significant increase the risk of cancer, first emerged in Greece when a local pediatrician detected the gene in three children of the same family born through IVF with the former’s sample.

One of the children later developed cancer, although media reports have not specified the type. The physician later encountered another child conceived with the same donor’s sperm, who also has the genetic mutation.

The man’s genetic material has reportedly been used in the IVF conception of hundreds of children around Europe and has been employed by seven clinics in Greece.

This revelation has caused “warning bells” to sound for Greek authorities and fertility clinics in the country, as affected children must be medically monitored and their families informed of necessary preventive measures.

According to reports, the health ministry is examining ways to identify and communicate with the families of the remaining children born to the specific donor in Greece, following international guidelines to protect the health of patients.