Impact of oral iron supplementation on first-time whole blood donors deferred due to low haemoglobin.

Abstract

Background and objectives: Low haemoglobin (Hb) in whole blood donors account for 15.5% to 55.8% deferrals which is easily treatable. The present study was planned to determine the number of blood donors deferred due to low Hb becoming eligible to donate whole blood after iron supplementation.

Material and methods: The prospective interventional study was conducted over 18 months. Blood donors presenting for whole blood donation but deferred for low Hb (< 125g/L) were included. First-time whole blood donors showing a picture of iron deficiency based on complete blood counts (CBC) and peripheral blood film (PBF) on the sample collected before the initiation of oral iron supplementation (Day 0) were contacted and requested to visit the blood centre. They were counselled and provided ferrous sulphate tablets (325mg containing 100mg elemental iron) to be taken daily after meals for 60 days. Compliance with the intake of iron supplementation was ensured. After completing oral iron supplementation for 60 days, a repeat sample was collected.

Results: A total of 126 donors were provided with iron supplementation for 60 days. A significant increase in mean haemoglobin was observed in the blood donors who completed iron supplementation therapy for 60 days [109 (15) to 126 (15) g/L; p value<0.001]. Seventy-six (60%) donors became eligible to donate blood. Regression models indicated that Hb levels on Day 60 were independently predicted by gender in donors who became eligible to donate.

Conclusion: Iron supplementation has the potential to enhance donor eligibility and significantly expand the safe donor pool.