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[Less iron deficiency in whole-blood donors: the effect of ferritin-guided donation intervals]
Amber Meulenbeld1, Steven Ramondt1, Maaike G Sweegers1
1Sanquin Research, afd. Donor Health, Amsterdam.
Objective:
To evaluate the effect of ferritin-guided donation intervals on haemoglobin (Hb) and ferritin levels, iron deficiency and low Hb deferrals in whole-blood donors.
Design:
A cluster-randomized stepped-wedge trial.
Methods:
In 2017-2019, Sanquin gradually implemented ferritin-guided donation intervals. Ferritin levels are measured in new donors and at every fifth donation. Donors with ferritin levels ≤ 30 ng/mL are deferred for 6-12 months. Additionally, we assessed donor return within six months.
Results:
In the 36 months following the implementation of the policy, the percentage of donors with iron deficiency, low ferritin, and low Hb decreased. Additionally, Hb and ferritin levels increased significantly compared to the previous policy. In males, odds of return decreased significantly after implementation of the new policy.
Conclusion:
Ferritin-guided donation intervals effectively improve donors' iron status, but necessitate additional efforts in donor recruitment and retention.
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