[Hemoglobin concentration and iron stores in female blood donors]

The blood hemoglobin concentration (B-Hb) and iron indices were measured in 1,856 consecutive female blood donors. The blood hemoglobin distribution was Gaussian except for an excess of high values. According to criteria defined by the WHO, 9.5% of the population were anemic, but using several criteria only 0.9% had iron deficiency anemia in agreement with the blood hemoglobin distribution curve. The distribution of the S-ferritin values was log Gaussian. Nearly 1/5 of female blood donors had low iron stores despite widespread use of iron supplements. The weak correlation detected between the B-Hb values and the S-ferritin level points to an increased risk of anemia in female blood donors. Regular determination of the S-ferritin level in female blood donors or extended use of iron supplements may contribute to the establishment of adequate iron stores and hence the prevention of anemia.