Iron metabolism indicators in blood donors

Abstract

The quality, safety, and proper use of donor blood resources are the most important aspects of transfusion medicine. One significant issue is the risk of developing iron deficiency in whole blood donors. This study examined iron metabolism and blood hemoglobin levels in a group of regular whole blood donors. It has been shown that some donors, after multiple blood donations, have serum ferritin levels as low as 15 µg/l, which is below the threshold value (criterion) for blood donation eligibility. The results are important for considering the timing of medical examinations for regular donors, especially regarding the need for timely restoration of iron reserves.