This study provides strong evidence that ferritin-guided personalized donation intervals effectively maintain iron stores and prevent iron-deficiency anemia in frequent blood donors.
Whole blood donations increase the risk for iron-deficiency anemia. Current selection of donors relies on hemoglobin values, which do not account for depletion of iron reserves. This Dutch study (FIND'EM) aimed to evaluate how using ferritin-guided donation intervals affects donor health and overall blood supply.
The country's 138 donation centers were cluster-randomized to transition sequentially over 2 years from the standard hemoglobin-based screening to a ferritin-guided donation interval policy. Ferritin levels were measured in all new donors and at every fifth donation for repeat donors. Donation intervals (normally, 56 days for men and 122 days for women) were extended to 6 months when donors had ferritin levels of 15 to 30 ng/mL and …
Reviewing Author
DisclosuresConsultant/Advisory BoardGenentech
Grant/Research SupportX4 Pharma; Pfizer; Health Resources and Services Administration; American Thrombosis and Hemostasis Network/CDC; Carver College of Medicine
Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesInternational Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (Finance Committee Member); American Society of Hematology Clinical Research Translational Institute
DisclosuresConsultant/Advisory BoardGenentech
Grant/Research SupportX4 Pharma; Pfizer; Health Resources and Services Administration; American Thrombosis and Hemostasis Network/CDC; Carver College of Medicine
Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesInternational Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (Finance Committee Member); American Society of Hematology Clinical Research Translational Institute