Abstract

Background and Purpose. Monitoring the health of blood donors is essential, particularly in assessing their iron stores. The World Health Organization recommends using ferritin levels in blood as an indicator of iron status. Estonian blood donors have not previously been systematically studied in this regard. This study evaluated ferritin levels among donors at the North Estonia Medical Centre (PERH) Blood Centre, analysing their relationship with demographic factors and donation history to identify groups at higher risk of iron deficiency.
Methodology. The study involved 10% of all donors within a oneyear period. Data were collected on sex, age, haemoglobin (Hb), ferritin levels, and the number of donations made in the previous two years. For donors with ferritin levels ≤15 µg/L, identified during the study, blood donation was suspended for one year. These donors were invited back for a followup assessment a year later, where their ferritin levels were measured again.
Results. Among whole blood donors, 24% were found to have low ferritin levels, with 34% of women and 13% of men affected. Low ferritin was more common among younger women and older men. A statistically significant association was observed between lower ferritin levels and a higher number of donations over the twoyear period. After a oneyear break from donation, 73% of those with previously low ferritin had normalized levels. However, only 44% of donors who had been temporarily suspended came to donate again when called.

Conclusions. Nearly a quarter of PERH blood donors are at risk of being excluded from donation due to low iron stores. Young women, older men, and frequent donors are most affected. Extending the interval between donations helps restore ferritin levels for many donors, but excluding this substantial portion of the donor pool could endanger the hospital blood supply. Furthermore, the willingness of previously deferred donors to return is limited. Implementing strategies to replenish iron stores in atrisk groups may help prevent iron deficiency and maintain a stable donor base.