Repeat Donors Research Articles

Effect of SARS-CoV-2 Infection on Selected Parameters of the Apelinergic System in Repeat Blood Donors

Background: SARS-CoV-2 enters cells primarily by binding to the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor, thereby blocking its physiological functions, affecting the apelinergic system, and inhibiting the cleavage of its peptides. The appropriate concentration of peptides in the apelinergic system influences the maintenance of homeostasis and protects against cardiovascular diseases. In our research, we determined the level of selected parameters of the apelinergic system—apelin (AP), elabela (ELA), and the apelin receptor (APJ)—in repeat blood donors. Methods: We analyzed 120 serum samples obtained from 30 repeat donors (study group) within four time periods after a SARS-CoV-2 infection: <60 days, 61–90 days, 91–120 days, and >120 days. We compared the results from the study groups with those of the control group, which consisted of 30 serum samples collected from donors donating blood in the years 2018–2019. Results: We observed that the AP, ELA, and APJ concentrations in the control group are higher than in any period in the study group. In the study group, the concentrations of AP and ELA increased in subsequent study periods. AP and ELA concentrations were lower shortly after SARS-CoV-2 transfection and then slowly increased in subsequent periods. APJ concentrations, on the other hand, were lowest at 61–90 days after the infection, but the decrease, relative to their level in healthy subjects, was significant in every period studied. Conclusions: The results suggest that infection with SARS-CoV-2 causes changes in the parameters of the apelinergic system, both after a short period of time has passed since the onset of the SARS-CoV-2 infection, and even up to 4 months after the infection.

Prevalence, incidence, and residual risk for human immunodeficiency virus among blood donors from 2003 to 2022 in Guangzhou, China.

China's significant population affected by HIV poses a substantial threat to blood transfusion safety. Despite advancements in blood testing techniques, a residual risk of HIV transmission persists. Accurately assessing HIV epidemic and the residual risk is vital for monitoring blood supply safety and evaluating the effectiveness of new screening tests. We conducted a retrospective analysis of HIV detection results among voluntary blood donors from 2003 to 2022. The study included data on HIV-confirmed positive donors, HIV prevalence, infection risk factors, and an incidence-window period mathematical model to estimate the residual risk of HIV. Between 2003 and 2022, HIV prevalence among blood donors in Guangzhou showed a peak-shaped trend, initially increasing before declining. The overall HIV prevalence was 18.9 infections per 100,000 donations. Male donors had a significantly higher prevalence compared with female donors. Donors aged 26-35 years had the highest prevalence. Ethnic minority donors had a higher prevalence compared with Han donors. Repeat donors had a lower prevalence compared with first-time donors. Donors from other provinces had a higher prevalence compared with local donors. During the period of 2003 to 2022, the residual risk of HIV in Guangzhou steadily decreased, reaching a notable 1 in 526,316 donations in the past two years. The HIV epidemic among blood donors in Guangzhou remains severe, but the residual risk of HIV is decreasing. Novel detection methods have proven advantageous in reducing this residual risk. Implementing additional effective measures is imperative to ensure blood safety and curb the spread of HIV.

Prospective study of restless legs syndrome in a blood donors’ sample

Background and objectivesBlood donation is suggested to increase the risk of Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS). This study aims to assess the prevalence of RLS in Spanish blood donors and determined its potential correlation with iron metabolism parameters. Materials and methodsProspective cohort study of 129 blood donors (54.3% men, 39.44 years ± 11.0) that underwent a physical examination, blood analysis (hemoglobin, ferritin, transferrin saturation index and soluble transferrin receptor) and a RLS screening questionnaire followed by a prospective follow-up study including a clinical phone interview. A multivariate logistic regression model was performed to examine the association between RLS and other variables. ResultsEighty-four (65.1%) participants were repeat blood donors (mean of 2.11 donations/year) at inclusion and 61 (47.4%) at follow-up (mean of 2.09 donations/year). Non-anemic iron deficiency (ferritin < 50 µg/L) was high in women p < 0.001 and in repeat donors (p = 0.003). The prevalence of RLS was 14.1% at inclusion increasing prospectively (19.5%; p = 0.065). On multivariate analysis, gender was the only variable significantly associated with a RLS diagnosis, being higher in women (OR 5.1; 95% CI 1.71-15.3; p = 0.003). ConclusionsDespite the high prevalence of non-anemic iron deficiency there was no association between ferritin, soluble transferrin receptor concentration values and RLS diagnosis. Gender was associated with RLS diagnosis regardless of other variables.

Use of routinely collected blood donation data for expanded HIV and Syphilis surveillance in Blantyre district, Malawi.

The World Health Organization recommends that all blood donations be screened for transfusion transmissible infections; these data are currently not incorporated into national disease surveillance efforts. We set out to use routinely collected data from blood donors in Blantyre district, Malawi to explore HIV and syphilis prevalence and identify sero-conversions among repeat donors. We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis of blood donation data collected by the Malawi Blood Transfusion Service from 2015 to 2021. All blood donations were routinely screened for HIV and syphilis. We characterized donor demographics as well as screening outcomes, including identifying sero-conversions among repeat donors who previously tested negative on their last donation. A total of 23,280 donations from 5,051 donors were recorded, with a median frequency of donations of 3 (IQR:2-6). Most donors were male (4,294; 85%) and students (3,262; 64.6%). Prevalence of HIV at first donation was 1.0% (52/5,051) and prevalence of syphilis was 1.6% (80/5,051); 52 HIV sero-conversions and 126 syphilis sero-conversions were identified, indicating an incidence rate per 1,000 person-years of 5.9 (95% CI: 4.7, 7.4) and 13.3 (95% CI:11.4, 15.4) respectively. Students had a lower prevalence of HIV and syphilis but higher risk of syphilis seroconversion. While blood donors are generally considered a low-risk population for HIV and syphilis, we were able to identify relatively high rates of undiagnosed HIV and syphilis infections among donors. Routinely collected data from national blood donation services may be used to better understand local HIV and syphilis epidemiology, with the potential to enhance disease surveillance systems. These findings may be used to identify priority prevention areas and populations in Blantyre district that can inform targeted interventions for improved disease prevention, testing and treatment.

A risk prediction model for vasovagal reactions in whole blood donors including the physical and psychological factors: Results from a case–control study done in a regional blood transfusion center

Abstract: BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Blood centers strive to maintain a safe and adequate supply of blood products from healthy volunteer donors. Primary responsibility of a medical officer is to assess donor risk for vasovagal reaction (VVR) and alert the phlebotomist. The study attempts to identify the significant risk factors of VVR which may help in decision-making. METHODS: This was a case–control study including blood donors donating 350 ml Whole blood in Department of Transfusion Medicine, Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram from December 19, 2017 to June 31, 2018. Donors who suffered VVRs during or after blood donation were considered as cases and compared with controls. The prevalence of risk factors such as age, sex, number of previous donations, body mass index (BMI), blood volume, sleep duration, food intake, fear and anxiety, and pain perception was compared between the groups. RESULTS: 174 cases and 348 controls were studied. Most of the donors were &lt; 35 years of age (63.2%) younger age groups (18–25 year) had a higher odds of VVR (5.54 with 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.4–12.5). First time donations carried an increased risk of VVR with an ODDs ratio of 5.8 (3.81–9.131) compared to repeat donors. Around 45% of cases were first timers whereas only 12% of controls were first time donors. There was a significantly higher rate of reactions in donors who had episodes of VVRs in the previous donations. Odds 1.99 (CI 1.09–3.74) other risk factors identified were female gender (6.3, 95% CI 2–20), lack of sleep at previous night (32.9; CI 16.17–67.18), and high BMI &gt; 27.5/m2 with odds ratio 2.5 (1.4–4.3). Having an estimated blood volume &lt; 3500 ml also was associated with higher odds of VVRs. CONCLUSION: In spite of having a strict criteria for donor deferral based on risk factors, vasovagal reactions still occur and risk factors are prevalent in blood donor population. Special attention should be given to donors having one more of such risk factors and attempts should be made to avert VVRs.

Detection and analysis of parvovirus B19 among blood donors in a regional blood center in Eastern China

Background and objectiveThe B19 virus is mainly transmitted through the respiratory tract; however, studies have shown that it can also be transmitted through blood transfusions or plasma products. This study investigated B19V antibodies, DNA, and gene typing in blood donors at a central blood station in China to evaluate the status of B19V infection. Materials and methodsA total of 7728 samples from Suzhou Blood Center were collected from July 2022 to April 2023. Samples were detected for the B19V DNA using real-time polymerase chain reaction. Furthermore, 893 selected samples were screened for the seroprevalence of B19V antibodies using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The NS1-VP1u fragment of the B19V DNA-positive samples was amplified using nested PCR, and the sequences were determined. A B19V phylogenetic tree was constructed using neighborhood joint and maximum parsimony methods to discriminate genotypes using the NS1-VP1u sequences. ResultsThe percentages of IgG, IgM, and DNA were 19.4 %, 1.9 %, and 0.09 %, respectively. IgG positivity increased with age, and there was a significant difference among the blood groups. The IgG levels of repeat donors were greater than those of first-time donors. There were no apparent differences in the IgM levels in all the participants. Genotyping revealed that the B19 genotype was 1. ConclusionsThe prevalence of B19V antibodies and DNA was lower in these areas than in rest of China, indicating that the risk of B19V transmission via transfusion may be relatively low. However, during transfusion, particular attention should be paid to the B19V-susceptible populations, especially those in high-risk groups.

Blood safety markers in Dutch donors after relaxation of deferral for men who have sex with men: re-emergence of syphilis and HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis use.

Less discriminatory donor selection policies for men who have sex with men (MSM) may impact transfusion safety in terms of higher residual risks for known transfusion-transmitted infections (TTIs), increased vulnerability toward new TTIs that are also transmitted via sex, and HIV infections masked by pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). TTI trends in Dutch donors were studied over a 13-year period (2011-2023), characterized by successive relaxations of MSM deferral criteria. Structured posttest counseling was performed to determine risk factors in TTI-positive donors. PrEP drug levels were measured in 9977 donations from male donors living in urban areas and in 67 donors with active or resolved syphilis. HIV incidence (from 5.8 to 1.5 per 1,000,000 donor years (DY)) and HBV incidence (from 12.4 to 4.5 per 1,000,000 DY) in Dutch donors decreased with less stringent MSM deferral criteria, while syphilis prevalence (from 26.4 to 44.1 per 100,000 new donors) and syphilis incidence (from 18.3 to 46.3 per 1,000,000 DY) increased over time. The proportion of MSM-related syphilis rose from 2% to 32% in new donors and from 12% to 27% in repeat donors. PrEP was detected in 2 of 9977 (0.02%) donations from male donors living in urban areas, and in 1 of 39 (2.6%) male donors with syphilis. To date, phasing out donor deferral for MSM had no significant impact on transfusion safety in the Netherlands. However, rising syphilis rates and (recent) PrEP use in the blood donor population, albeit rare, suggest an influx of donors with higher sexual risk profiles and requires intensified TTI surveillance in donors.

Blood Donor Characteristics at a Hospital Blood Bank in Saudi Arabia: A Trend-analysis

Abstract BACKGROUND: Identification of blood donor profiles helps with recruitment and retention strategies. OBJECTIVES: To describe donor characteristics at a hospital blood bank and to describe any changes in donor characteristics throughout the study period. METHODS: In this retrospective observational study, we reviewed the blood bank records from 2005 to 2022. Characteristics of donors (age 18 or above) were collected. Percentages of donors according to various characteristics were described in 3-year intervals and compared using the Chi-square test. RESULTS: Over the study period, 226,576 blood donations were identified. Most donors were men, and half were non-Saudi nationals. Approximately two-thirds of the blood donors (145,794, 64.3%) were between 25 and 44 years old, and (59,650, 26.3%) were between 18 and 24 years old. When donors were compared across time intervals according to the age group, the percentage of donors 18–24 years old decreased over time from 31.4% in the interval 2005–2007 to 23.5% in the 2020–2022 interval. Significant changes were seen in the percentages of repeat donors as well. CONCLUSIONS: Donation trends showed significant changes related to donor age, gender, and nationality as well as donor type (new or repeat donor), the most notable being that donations by younger adults have decreased. Marketing plans must be implemented to target and retain this donor population. Further research is required for the detailed characterization of donors across the country to ensure the sustainability of the blood supply.

Iron deficiency among Japanese whole-blood donors measured by serum ferritin.

A more restrictive blood donation criterion has been applied in Japan, with a maximum volume of whole blood (WB) donation of 400 mL, allowing twice a year for female donors and thrice a year for male donors. However, iron deficiency was as high as 20.5% among female donors prior to donation, increasing to 37.7% after blood donation. More than 20 years have passed since then, so we set out to investigate the present situation. A total of 2659 (male/female: 1496/1163) donors of 400 mL WB who gave informed consent to join the study were enrolled. Serum ferritin (sFer) of first-time/reactivated (FT/RA) donors were compared with those of repeat donors, according to gender and age; those who returned for subsequent donations during the study period were also followed up. About one-third of FT/RA female donors had iron deficiency, possibly reflecting its high incidence among the general population. Interestingly, although sFer levels were low among pre-menopausal FT/RA female donors, these values were not much different in repeat donors, whereas significant differences were observed between FT/RA and repeat donors among post-menopausal females and in most age groups among males. As expected, donors with a normal initial sFer (≥26 ng/mL) recovered faster than those with a low initial sFer. Female donors, especially, have iron deficiency even before donation, and the rate increased compared to what was found previously. Measures to prevent iron deficiency of blood donors is required, and studies are going on in Japan.

Effectiveness of ferritin-guided donation intervals in whole-blood donors in the Netherlands (FIND'EM): a stepped-wedge cluster-randomised trial

Whole-blood donors are at increased risk for iron deficiency and anaemia. The current standard of haemoglobin monitoring is insufficient to ensure the maintenance of proper iron reserves and donor health. We aimed to determine the effects of ferritin-guided donation intervals for blood donor health and blood supply in the Netherlands. In this stepped-wedge cluster-randomised trial (FIND'EM), the 138 fixed and mobile donation centres in the Netherlands are organised into 29 geographical clusters and the clusters were randomly assigned to four treatment groups, with two groups being further split into two per a protocol amendment. Eligible donors were whole-blood donors who consented for use of their leftover material in the study. Each group was sequentially crossed over from the existing policy (haemoglobin-based screening; control) to a ferritin-guided donation interval policy over a 3-year period. In the intervention groups, in addition to the existing haemoglobin screening, ferritin was measured in all new donors and at every fifth donation in repeat donors. Subsequent donation intervals were extended to 6 months if ferritin concentrations were 15-30 ng/mL and to 12 months if they were less than 15 ng/mL. Outcomes were measured cross-sectionally across all donation centres at four timepoints. Primary outcomes were ferritin and haemoglobin concentrations, iron deficiency, and haemoglobin-based deferrals. We assessed all outcomes by sex and menopausal status and significance for primary outcomes was indicated by a p value of less than 0·0125. This trial is registered in the Dutch trial registry, NTR6738, and is complete. Between Sept 11, 2017, and Nov 27, 2020, 412 888 whole-blood donors visited a donation centre, and we did measurements on samples from 37 621 donations from 36 099 donors. Over 38 months, ferritin-guided donation intervals increased mean ferritin concentrations (by 0·18 log10 ng/mL [95% CI 0·15-0·22; p<0·0001] in male donors, 0·10 log10 ng/mL [0·06-0·15; p<0·0001] in premenopausal female donors, and 0·17 log10 ng/mL [0·12-0·21; p<0·0001] in postmenopausal female donors) and mean haemoglobin concentrations (by 0·30 g/dL [95% CI 0·22-0·38; p<0·0001] in male donors, 0·12 g/dL [0·03-0·20; p<0·0074] in premenopausal female donors, and 0·16 g/dL [0·05-0·27; p<0·0044] in postmenopausal female donors). Iron deficiency decreased by 36-38 months (odds ratio [OR] 0·24 [95% CI 0·18-0·31; p<0·0001] for male donors, 0·49 [0·37-0·64; p<0·0001] for premenopausal female donors, and 0·24 [0·15-0·37; p<0·0001] for postmenopausal female donors). At 36-38 months, haemoglobin-based deferral decreased significantly in male donors (OR at 36-38 months 0·21 [95% CI 0·10-0·40, p<0·0001]) but not significantly in premenopausal or postmenopausal female donors (0·81 [0·54-1·20; p=0·29] and 0·50 [95% CI 0·25-0·98; p=0·051], respectively). Ferritin-guided donation intervals significantly improved haemoglobin and ferritin concentrations and significantly decreased iron deficiency over the study period. Haemoglobin-based deferrals decreased significantly for male donors, but not female donors. Although this intervention is overall beneficial for maintenance of iron and haemoglobin concentrations in donors, increased efforts are needed to recruit and retain donors. The Sanquin Research Programming Committee.

Paths to improve voluntary blood donation in mixed public/private blood donation systems such as in Lebanon?

BackgroundThe World Health Organization advocates for the achievement of 100% voluntary non-remunerated blood donation (VNRD) globally by the year 2020. However, until today, little was known in Lebanon regarding its actual rate or influencing factors, particularly donor motivations and behaviors. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of blood donors in Lebanon. The ultimate goals were to retain first-time donors, encourage them to become regular ones, and facilitate the transition from replacement donation to VNRD. Materials and MethodsA multi-centric cross-sectional study was carried across the five governorates in Lebanon. A self-administered and structured questionnaire was used in this survey. Results were presented in terms of odds ratios, with statistical significance defined at a P value of 0.05 and a 95% confidence interval. Additionally, a benchmarking analysis of the situation of blood donation in Lebanon was also conducted, identifying several areas for improvement. ResultsA total of 620 blood donors participated in this study, with 21.3% being first-time donors and 78.7% repeat donors. While the latter were primarily motivated by self-esteem, solidarity or returning a favor (89%, 77.9% and 78.1%), the main obstacle for becoming regular donors was a lack of initiative (34.6%). Female donors (9.9% of the total) exhibited better knowledge (OR = 2.20, p = 0.011) and were more inclined to donate voluntarily (OR = 1.52, p = 0.048). Conversely, male donors were more likely to be repeat donors, often through replacement donation (OR = 2.95, p = 0.001). ConclusionThere is a significant disparity between the low rate of voluntary donation in Lebanon (22.2%) and the relatively high proportion of donors with adequate knowledge of the donation process (60.5%). Therefore, urgent action by public authorities, based on the evidence based strategies outlined in this article, is crucial to enhancing the voluntary donation rate in Lebanon.

Prevalence and trends of hepatitis B and C virus biomarkers in Zimbabwe: comparative analyses of a nation’s blood-donor surveillance data and meta-analyses of population studies

Background The disproportionate burden of viral hepatitis, particularly hepatitis B virus (HBV) is experienced by people living in low-resourced sub-Saharan Africa, where the estimated prevalence is 3–7 times the global average. Therefore to inform policy, we describe the seroprevalence and trends of hepatitis C (HCV) and HBV biomarkers: anti-HCV antibody and hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), respectively, in Zimbabwe. Methods We analysed data from 181,248 consecutive blood-donors, examined between January 2015 through December 2018. Additionally, we conducted a comprehensive literature review using PubMed and African Journals Online databases, meta-analysing selected papers from Zimbabwe, published between 1970 and 2020, that met specific criteria. Results Overall age-standardized prevalence rate (ASPR) for anti-HCV was 8.67 (95%CI, 0.25–17.09) per 100,000, while that for HBsAg was 2.26 (95%, 1.89–2.63) per 1000 blood-donors, per year. Meta-analysis of 9 studies comprising 220,127 persons tested for anti-HCV revealed ASPR of 0.05% (95% 0%–0.19%) in blood-donors and 1.78% (95%CI, 0.01%–5.55%) in the general population, for an overall pooled ASPR of 0.44 (95%CI, 0.19%–0.76%). 21 studies comprising 291,784 persons tested for HBsAg revealed ASPR of 0.65% (95%CI, 0.31%–1.00%) in blood-donors and 4.31% (95%CI, 1.77%–6.50%) in the general population for an overall pooled ASPR of 4.02% (95%CI, 3.55%–4.48%), after HBV vaccine introduction. HBsAg prevalence was significantly higher before HBV vaccine introductions. Conclusions The prevalence of HBV is decreasing, consistent with the introduction of HBV vaccination, while HCV prevalence is increasing in Zimbabwe. This highlights the need for Improved blood-donor screening and more informative biomarker studies, particularly among repeat donors and children.

Evaluating the effectiveness of three communication modes in promoting repeat voluntary donation behavior in first-time blood donors at a tertiary care blood center in North India

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Due to rapid technological advancements, several new methods such as telephone (TP), e-mail, social media, WhatsApp (WA), and Short Message Services are being used as effectively among blood centers worldwide for postdonation communication with blood donors’ education and motivation to recruit and retain them as repeat and regular voluntary nonremunerated blood donors. The present study was aimed at determining the effectiveness of WA, TP, and personal communications (PCs) as modes of communication to recruit and retain first-time replacement blood donors to become repeat and regular voluntary blood donors. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This 1-year observational prospective study was conducted in the Post Graduate Department of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion in Government Medical College and Hospital, Jammu. Three hundred first-time blood donors selected for the study were divided into three groups comprising 100 blood donors each as per the mode of communication strategy adopted, namely postdonation PC, TP, and WA groups. RESULTS: The repeat donation rate was highest in the TP group (61%), followed by the WA group (47%) and PC group (37%). The mean repeat donation was found to be significant in the TP group (P = 0.007) and WA group (P = 0.021) as compared PC group while there was no significant difference between the TP group and WA groups (0.751). CONCLUSION: In our study, it was found that of the three communication modes, namely personal, TP, and WA, telephonic communication with a repeat donation rate of 61% was the most effective mode of communication in for motivating and converting first-time blood donors into repeat regular voluntary blood donors.

Trends in immunological markers of transfusion transmissible infections among blood donors in Mamfe District Hospital, Southwest Cameroon

BackgroundBlood transfusion is associated with exposure to blood Transfusion Transmissible Infection (TTIs). The threat posed by the blood-borne pathogens is disproportionately distributed in different healthcare facilities in Cameroon. Thus, there is a need for continuous surveillance of TTIs in the country. This study aimed to assess the screening procedure for blood transfusion and determine the trend in immunological markers of TTIs among blood donors at the Mamfe District Hospital.MethodsA prospective descriptive, cross-sectional and analytical study was conducted at Mamfe District Hospital from March to May 2022. A total of 165 blood donors were recruited by the consecutive sampling method. Donors were screened using both Rapid diagnostic tests,T. pallidum haemagglutination test and indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the detection of TTIs. Data generated was entered into an Excel spreadsheet and analysed using the statistical software R, version 4.2.0. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics of percentages, means ± standard deviation, and student t-test was used to compare both diagnostic techniques, and was considered significant when p < 0.05.ResultsA hundred and sixty-five donors were enrolled in the study with a male preponderance giving a male-female sex ratio of 22.5 and a mean age of 32.23 ± 8.60 years. The majority (75.2%) of the donors were of the O-positive blood type, repeat donors (69.1%) and were mainly family replacement and paid donors as against the voluntary blood donors (39.4% and 37.0% vs. 23.6% respectively). overall TTIs prevalence was 18.78% (31/165) (), with HBsAg being the most predominant marker at 12.12% (20/165) followed by Treponema pallidum, HCV and HIV antibodies at 4.85 (8/165), 1.21%(2/165), 0.60% (1/165) respectively. Except for the HBV, The prevalence of TTIs was higher when using a single RDT than the ELISA test, and the difference was significant (p < 0.05).ConclusionBloodborne pathogens remain a major menace to safe blood transfusion practice in Mamfe district hospital and their detection could be easily missed if the RDT method alone is used for donor screening. Therefore, the donor screening protocol in Mamfe District Hospital should systematically incorporate a confirmation diagnostic test such as ELISA.

Screening for potential infections in fecal microbiota transplantation guidelines and an experience of microbiota bank operation in Korea: a narrative review

Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) involves the transfer of fecal microbiota from healthy donors to patients to rectify dysbiosis and restore the functionality of the gut microbiota to a healthy state. Donor selection is important to minimize the risk of FMT. Donor selection for FMT is primarily focused on screening for potential infections. A complete consensus on screening tests and checkpoints is lacking and controversial; nevertheless, most guidelines agree to rule out certain infections, such as syphilis; hepatitis A, B, and C; and HIV. In most guidelines, stool testing includes testing for Clostridioides difficile and other enteric pathogens. The Korean FMT guidelines for C. difficile infections were published in 2022. The guidelines recommend serological and stool testing for donor candidates, with recommendations for stool testing providing targets for screening using specific test methods. Donor screening by Microbiotix Inc., a fecal microbiota bank in Korea, between 2017 and 2023 showed that only 5% of potential FMT donors were eligible for repeat donation. The future of FMT remains uncertain, with possibilities ranging from continuation to restrictions, and the development of synthetic microbiota preparations. Legislative support is crucial for advancing this field and providing hope and a potential cure for previously incurable patients.

Prevalence of Transfusion-transmissible Infections in Blood Donors: A Private Hospital Experience

Introduction: Blood transfusion, a vital component of established medical protocols, has the potential to save lives and enhance well-being. Nonetheless, it carries inherent risks, with transfusion-transmissible infections (TTIs) remaining a global public health concern. Vigilant monitoring of TTI prevalence among blood donors and understanding of evolving patterns are crucial safety endeavours. The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of TTIs and their patterns among blood donors within a private hospital’s transfusion service. Methods: This retrospective study involved TTI testing results of blood donations at Normah Medical Specialist Centre (NMSC) in Kuching, Sarawak, spanning a decade from 2010 to 2019. Results: A total of 7329 blood donors contributed 16,085 blood units (2010 – 2019). Among them, 353 donors exhibited reactivity to TTIs, resulting in a prevalence of 4.81%. The majority of reactive donors were male (87.3%), of Malay ethnicity (62.6%), and first-time donors (73.9%). The prevalence rates were highest for HCV (2.69%), followed by HBV (1.41%), HIV (0.42%), and syphilis (0.39%). Both HBV and HCV demonstrated declining prevalence trends, while the prevalence of HIV and syphilis remained consistently low. The response to notification of positivity among reactive donors stood at a mere 4.0%, and the seroconversion rate among repeat donors reached 36.9%. No significant disparities in prevalence or response rates were observed between first-time and repeat donors. Conclusions: The prevalence of TTIs within NMSC’s blood donor populace remains relatively low, though not negligible. The responsiveness of reactive donors to notifications displayed considerable deficiencies.

Donor Haemovigilance: A South Indian experience

Blood Donation from healthy screened donors is a well-tolerated procedure. However a small percentage may experience adverse donor reactions. Donor haemovigilance aims at identifying and documenting these reactions for donor safety.: This prospective cross-sectional study conducted at the Department of Transfusion Medicine &amp; Immunohaematology, Govt. Medical College, Kozhikode, Kerala for a one year study period from January 1st 2018 to December 31st 2018 included all adverse donor reactions and donor determinants in vasovagal reactions in allogenic whole blood donors. Donors were assessed as per the Standard Operating Procedure (S.O.P) based on national guidelines. 350ml collection bags were used. Vasovagal reactions were also graded as per the Blood Donation Reactions Inventory scale (B.D.R.I).: During the 1 year study period, 1.79% of 27,800 donors experienced adverse reactions. The most common symptoms were pre-syncopal 1.33% with syncope forming only 0.3% and local reactions 0.16%. Correlation with donor characteristics using Pearsons chi square test showed significance for female gender, first timers and lack of adequate sleep (&amp;#60;5 hrs). In our study there was no association with age (S.O.P guidelines) or food intake &amp;#60;4hrs.Our study reinforces the safety of blood donation with a very low prevalence of adverse reactions. Proper donor counseling and examination noting donor characteristics like adequate sleep, food intake and alleviation of fears and doubts of first timers can play a major role in further reducing the reaction rate and ensuring repeat donors, the need of the hour.

Syphilis seroprevalence and incidence in US blood donors from 2020 to 2022.

HIV, HBV, and HCV infections for ~60% of the US blood supply are monitored by TTIMS with syphilis added in 2020. Data were compiled from October 2020 to September 2022. Syphilis prevalence was estimated for allogeneic and directed donors who were consensus positive (CP) and the subset of those with confirmed-active infections (AI). Prevalence and incidence were stratified by demographics for two consecutive 1-year periods, starting October 1, 2020 and for both years combined. Incidence was estimated for repeat donors. Associations between syphilis positivity and other infections were evaluated. Among 14.75 million donations, syphilis prevalence was 28.4/100,000 donations and significantly higher during the second year compared to the first year. Overall, syphilis incidence for the two-year period was 10.8/100,000 person-years. The adjusted odds of a CP infection were 1.18 (95% CI: 1.11, 1.26) times higher in the second year compared to the first, and for AI, 1.22 (95% CI: 1.10, 1.35) times higher in year 2. Highest rates occurred among males, first-time, Black, and younger (ages 18-39) donors, and those in the South US Census region. Syphilis CP donors were 64 (95% CI: 46, 89) times more likely to be HIV CP, and AI donors 77 (95% CI: 52, 114) times more likely to be HIV CP than non-CP donors, when controlling for confounders. Syphilis prevalence increased over the study period mirroring national trends reported by CDC and is significantly associated with HIV CP.

Prevalence and Trends of Transfusion-Transmissible HBV Infection Among Blood Donors in Southwestern China: A Six-Year Retrospective Study.

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a significant global public health concern, with variable prevalence rates across regions. The prevalence of transfusion-transmitted HBV infection (TT-HBV) via donated blood necessitates an evaluation of blood safety and potential risks to the population. This study assessed the prevalence of HBV infection among blood donors in Southwestern China over 6 years. We analyzed 903,023 blood donations from a central blood center in Southwestern China between January 2017 and December 2022. The prevalence of HBV in donations was determined for one-time and repeat donors, considering birth cohorts and covariates. Demographic characteristics, donation frequency, and anti-HBV antibody status were analyzed to estimate the incidence of TT-HBV. One-time donors provided 47.78% of the samples, and 52.22% were from repeat donors. The HBV prevalence decreased from 1.0% in 2017 to 0.87% in 2022 in one-time donors and from 0.30% to 0.09%, respectively, in repeat donors. A significantly lower HBV prevalence was identified in the post-1992 birth cohort (0.33%) than in the pre-1992 birth cohort (1.67%). The estimated incidences of TT-HBV occurring from one-time donors, repeat donors, post-1992 birth cohort donors, and pre-1992 birth cohort donors were 20.76, 13.84, 0.82, and 20.98 per 104 person-years, respectively. Our findings indicate a decreasing trend in HBV prevalence among blood donors in Southwestern China over the 6-year study period. This decline may be attributed to the widespread administration of HBV vaccinations and stringent screening measures implemented by blood donation centers. Continuous monitoring for HBV among blood donors is necessary to evaluate the effectiveness of preventive measures and inform future strategies to reduce transmission.

Self-reported high-risk behavior among first-time and repeat replacement blood donors; a four-year retrospective study of patterns.

There is no replacement for blood, and patients requiring transfusion depend on human donors, most of whom are family donors. Family donors may deny engagement in high-risk activities, which threaten the safety of donated blood. This study determined frequency of self-reported high-risk behaviors among replacement donors. This retrospective study recruited 1317 donor records from 2017-2020, at Mankranso Hospital, Ghana. Data from archived donor questionnaires were extracted and analyzed with SPSS and GraphPad. Frequencies, associations, and quartiles were presented. The donors were predominantly males (84.4%), 17-26 years old (43.7%), informal workers (71.8%), rural inhabitants (56.5%), first-time (65.0%), and screened in the rainy season (56.3%). Donation frequency was significantly associated with age, sex, occupation, and residence. Repeat donors were significantly older (p≤0.001). More males than females were deferred (p = 0.008), drug addicts (p = 0.001), had body modifications (p = 0.025), multiple sexual partners (p = 0.045), and STIs (p≤0.001), whereas, more females were recently treated (p = 0.044). Weight loss (p = 0.005) and pregnancy (p = 0.026) were frequent among 17-26-year group, whereas, tuberculosis was frequent among 37-60-year group (p = 0.009). More first-time donors were unwell (p = 0.005), deferred (p≤0.001), pregnant (p = 0.002), drug addicts, had impending rigorous activity (p = 0.037), body modifications (p = 0.001), multiple sexual partners (p = 0.030), and STIs (p = 0.008). STIs were frequent in the dry season (p = 0.010). First-time donors had reduced hemoglobin (p = 0.0032), weight (p = 0.0003), and diastolic pressure (p = 0.0241). Donation frequency was associated with age, sex, occupation, and residence, with first-time donors younger than repeat donors. Deferral from donation, drug addiction, body modification, multiple sexual partners, and STIs were frequent among males, whereas, more females received treatment. Tuberculosis was frequently reported among older adults, whereas, weight loss and pregnancy were frequent among younger individuals. More first-time donors reported being unwell, deferred, drug addiction, body modifications, multiple sexual partners, STIs, and pregnant. Hemoglobin, weight, and diastolic BP were reduced among first-time donors.