Iron stores in blood donors

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Transfusion Medicine
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• High frequency of blood donations raises concerns about iron depletion among donors.
• Previous assessments relied on less sensitive iron status indicators.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate iron depletion in frequent blood donors.
• To identify sensitive biomarkers for iron deficiency in this population.
• To assess factors influencing iron stores in donors.

Main Methods:

• Measured hemoglobin, hematocrit, plasma iron, total iron-binding capacity, and ferritin.
• Collected detailed histories on iron intake, menstrual status, pregnancy, and donation history.
• Analyzed 516 female and 505 male donors.

Main Results:

• Ferritin values were more sensitive indicators of iron depletion than hemoglobin or hematocrit.
• Reduced iron stores were observed in 8% of males and 23% of females.
• Menstruation significantly impacted iron stores in women.
• Donation frequency per year was a stronger predictor of low iron stores than total lifetime donations.
• Iron supplementation lessened the impact of donations on iron stores.

Conclusions:

• Frequent blood donation can lead to significant iron depletion, particularly in menstruating women.
• Ferritin is a crucial marker for assessing iron status in blood donors.
• Further research into iron supplementation for donors is warranted.