Characteristics of first-time blood donors with unsatisfactory hemoglobin level and positive hepatitis B test in Binh Dinh Province

Abstract

Blood transfusion is essential in the treatment of a various diseases. In order to guarantee a safe and sufficient volume of blood supply, it is crucial to select appropriate donors based on stringent eligibility criteria. The objective of this study was to furnish robust epidemiological information and identify the risk factors linked to hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and low hemoglobin levels in first-time blood donors in Binh Dinh. Understanding the causes for donor deferrals can assist better plan and establish an efficient recruiting strategies as well as evaluate donor selection criteria. A cross-sectional study was undertaken in Binh Dinh Provincial General Hospital from November 2022 to February 2023 to examine individuals in their first-time blood donation. Data were sourced directly from voluntary blood donation registration forms. HBsAg results were assessed using rapid immunochromatographic tests and chemiluminescent immunoassays. The rate of unsatisfactory hemoglobin levels was 2.56% tested on 1,638 participants. This rate was significantly associated with female sex (18 times greater odds than males), and lower weight. The results revealed that the rate of HBV infection was 3.13% when detected by the rapid test, but increased by 0.58% when measured by chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay. The positive hepatitis B deferral correlated with sex (p<0.05), age group (p<0.05) and occupation (p<0.05). HBV was found the leading cause of deferral in the study area and associated with males, age groups (25–35 and 36–44), officer, worker-farmer, and self-employed people. The prevalence of low hemoglobin donor deferral obtained was 2.56%. Low hemoglobin deferral is associated with female gender, lower body weight, worker-farmer, and self-employed - others. This finding underscores a significant public health concerns, highlighting the need for strategies to lower the infection rates. Understanding the factors leading to defered donation can contribute to development of proactive strategies for recruiting and retaining donors.