Hematopoietic Stem Cell Donors' Experiences of Information and Side-Effects During the First Year After Donation—A Swedish National Study

The aim was to describe hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) donors' experiences focusing on information and side effects during the first year after donation. Our prospective Swedish cohort study with adult HSC donors was performed from 2019 to 2022, with questionnaires at four time points from before until 12 months after donation. 173 unrelated and 68 related donors participated, and the majority donated peripheral blood stem cells. All but one rated their donation experience as good or very good. At least one side effect was reported by 83% of participants. Six donors (2.5%) experienced either numerous side effects, at least one severe side effect, or prolonged side effects. Satisfaction with information was lower among donors having severe side effects and bone marrow donors. Overall satisfaction with the donation was lower among donors having severe side effects and unrelated donors. Donors were generally satisfied with the pre-donation information. Most experienced side effects that resolved within 2 weeks, which strengthens the case for unchanged donor follow-up 1 month after donation, with individualized follow-up for donors with persistent symptoms. Enhanced information regarding the risk of more severe or prolonged side effects appears warranted, and its effect on donor satisfaction should be evaluated.