Predonation iron and hematological status of whole blood donors in lagos, Nigeria: Impact on blood supply

Context: Regular blood donations can engender iron depletion and its complications; reducing the prevalence of iron depletion among blood donors is a key strategy for optimizing donors' health. However, the factors impacting on iron deficiency among blood donors are not yet well characterized in our environment. Aim: The aim of this study is to determine predonation iron status and hematological profile among blood donors. Settings and Design: We conducted a comparative cross-sectional study of eligible blood donors at Lagos University Teaching Hospital. Consenting participants were consecutively recruited. Materials and Methods: Sociodemographic data were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Blood samples for estimation of ferritin, serum iron, total iron-binding capacity, and complete blood count were collected. Statistical Analysis Used: Statistical analysis was conducted using Stata version 14 software. Results: About three-fourths of the participants (n = 234, 74.8%) were first-time donors and one-fourth (n = 79, 25.2%) were frequent donors. Overall, 16 (5.1%) of the blood donors had depleted iron stores. There was a significant difference in the prevalence of iron depletion between first-time and regular donors (P