Hematopoietic Stem Cell Donors' Experiences of Information and Side-Effects During the First Year After Donation-A...

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Transplantation Medicine
• Donor Health

Background:

• Understanding hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) donor experiences is crucial for recruitment and retention.
• Focus on donor information and side effects during the first year post-donation is essential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the experiences of HSC donors, specifically regarding information received and side effects encountered.
• To evaluate donor satisfaction in relation to information and adverse events within the first year after donation.

Main Methods:

• Prospective Swedish cohort study of adult HSC donors (2019-2022).
• Utilized questionnaires at four time points: pre-donation to 12 months post-donation.
• Included 173 unrelated and 68 related donors, with most donating peripheral blood stem cells.

Main Results:

• Over 83% of donors reported at least one side effect, typically resolving within 2 weeks.
• All but one donor rated their experience as good or very good.
• Lower satisfaction with information and donation was noted among donors experiencing severe side effects or those donating via bone marrow or unrelated donation.

Conclusions:

• Current donor follow-up protocols appear adequate, with a need for individualized follow-up for persistent symptoms.
• Enhanced pre-donation information regarding the risk of severe or prolonged side effects is recommended.
• Further evaluation of enhanced information's impact on donor satisfaction is warranted.