MS is a chronic autoimmune condition that damages the central nervous system, disrupting communication between the brain and the body. Many people with chronic health conditions, including MS, wish to contribute to the community blood supply. Due to the complexity of MS and its treatments, specific safety regulations govern blood donation eligibility. This article clarifies the current guidelines and the reasons behind them.
Official Stance on Blood Donation
The eligibility of a person with MS to donate blood varies significantly by country and specific blood service organization. In the United States, major organizations generally permit individuals with MS to donate, provided they meet all other standard health requirements and feel well. This policy reflects the consensus that MS is not contagious and cannot be transmitted through blood products. Conversely, in many other nations, including the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, an MS diagnosis typically results in a permanent deferral. Potential donors must check the specific guidelines of their local blood collection center, as these differing policies are rooted in regulatory caution.
Understanding the Reasons for Deferral
For organizations that do not allow donation, the rationale is based on dual concerns for recipient safety and donor well-being. Recipient safety concerns relate to the unknown etiology of MS, leading to a conservative approach to rule out any theoretical risk of transmission. Although there is no evidence MS can be transmitted, regulators prioritize avoiding potential unknown risks associated with chronic neurological conditions. Donor safety is also a significant factor in eligibility. Giving blood involves physiological stress that could potentially exacerbate existing MS symptoms or trigger a relapse. Therefore, anyone experiencing an MS relapse or significant fatigue should refrain from donating blood.
Screening Questions Related to MS and Medications
Even where an MS diagnosis is not a disqualifier, screening focuses heavily on the donor’s current health status and medications. Potential donors are asked about their stability, including recent symptom flares or relapses; they must be feeling well and have a stable condition to be eligible. The use of Disease-Modifying Therapies (DMTs) or other immunosuppressant drugs is the most common reason for deferral. Certain medications carry mandatory deferral periods because they can pose a risk to the recipient, particularly if the blood is transfused to a pregnant woman or an immunocompromised patient. For instance, drugs like teriflunomide (Aubagio) require a two-year waiting period after the last dose due to the potential for birth defects. Other therapies, such as natalizumab (Tysabri), may result in deferral due to infection risks.
Other Ways to Support Blood Banks
For those deferred from donating blood due to MS or medication, there are still valuable ways to support the blood supply. Blood banks rely heavily on non-monetary contributions for successful operations and community outreach. Donating time as a volunteer is a direct way to help, such as assisting with donor registration or providing post-donation refreshments. Individuals can also help by organizing blood drives within their community, workplace, or school. Financial contributions are another method of support, funding rigorous testing, safe storage, and transportation of blood products.