Repeat Blood Donors and Iron Deficiency Anemia

Oh, Deokja; Lee, Jayoung

Abstract

Recently, there is a growing concern for loss of iron among repeat blood donors. We evaluated the effects of blood donation to iron deficiency in several studies and propose following measures to prevent iron depletion among repeat blood donors. We reviewed and analyzed comprehensively results of several domestic and foreign studies and cited Korean blood donor's statistics data. There is a high prevalence of iron depletion in repeat blood donors. Predictors of iron depletion (serum ferritin <12~15 ng/mL) included a high frequency of blood donation, short donation interval, and female gender regardless of blood donation type. Taking iron supplements reduced the risk of iron depletion for repeat blood donors. We would like to propose the following preventive measures for repeat blood donors. 1) Test for serum ferritin for repeat donors who donate at least three times per year. If the donors show low serum ferritin level which is below 15 ng/mL, 2) Increase the donation interval or limit of blood donation frequency and 3) Recommend iron supplement for a certain period.