Donors in the COVID-19 era: How did donor characteristics change in Japan?

The COVID-19 pandemic caused significant disruptions to the blood service in Japan. Stay-at-home policies in schools, organizations and companies made it challenging to access potential blood donors, leading to a substantial decline in blood donation rates. This study aimed to examine the profile of blood donors during the pandemic and compare it with that in the pre-pandemic period.

Blood donors who contributed to the Japanese Red Cross Blood Services between April 2018 and March 2021 were evaluated based on age, gender, occupation, donation site, height, body weight (BW) and donation status (first-time [FT] or repeat). Factors influencing the return of FT donors who contributed before and during the pandemic were also explored.

During the initial phase of the pandemic, a significant decrease in blood donations was observed, particularly in Tokyo. Despite intermittent drops, the required blood volume was ultimately collected. Donations by both female and male repeat donors increased, although the number of male repeat donors decreased, with only female repeat donors experiencing an absolute increase. Before the pandemic, younger age, 200-mL donation, higher body mass index and fixed donation sites were significantly associated with FT donor returns. During the pandemic, higher age (for males) and 400-mL donation (for females) emerged as significant factors. With changes in donor profiles during the pandemic, there was a noticeable shift in the characteristics of FT donors who returned for a subsequent donation within the following year, particularly in terms of age and blood donation volume.

Despite the challenges, the required blood volume was successfully collected, thanks to increased donations from repeat blood donors. Recruiting and retaining committed donors is essential for maintaining sustainable blood services, especially during crisis situations.