Teenagers Have More Complications Than Adults from Blood Donation

Factors associated with complications are young age, first-time donation, and female sex.

Teens younger than 20 years now account for nearly 15% of blood donors in the U.S. Most states allow individuals aged 17 years and older to donate blood, and many states allow 16-year-olds to donate with parental approval. In a review of more than 1.75 million whole-blood donations in 2006 from nine American Red Cross regions in 10 states, complications occurred in 10.7% of 16- and 17-year-olds, 8.3% of 18- and 19-year-olds, and 2.8% of adults older than 20.

The most frequent complications were symptomatic presyncope and small hematomas. Rates of all complications, loss of consciousness, and syncope-related complications were inversely associated with donor age. Injuries from falls related to syncope (head injuries, facial lacerations, denta…

Reviewing Author

F. Bruder Stapleton, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardCareer Physician

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society of Pediatric Nephrology Foundation (Chair)

F. Bruder Stapleton, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardCareer Physician

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society of Pediatric Nephrology Foundation (Chair)