Blood donation is a voluntary act that plays an important role in healthcare systems worldwide. It provides a constant supply of blood components essential for treating various medical conditions, from accident victims to cancer patients. Millions require transfusions annually, and since there is no substitute for human blood, generous donations are the sole source for these life-saving procedures.
Purpose of Blood Screening
Donated blood undergoes extensive screening, primarily to ensure the safety of the blood supply for recipients, rather than serving as a diagnostic test for the donor. While some infections tested for, like HIV or hepatitis, can be sexually transmitted, their detection focuses on preventing transfusion transmission. The goal is to identify potential risks to the blood supply. Blood centers prioritize the health of both the donor and the patient receiving the blood product.
Specific Tests Performed
After donation, blood units are routinely tested for several infectious diseases. These include screening for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) types 1 and 2, Hepatitis B and C viruses, and Syphilis. Tests are also performed for Human T-lymphotropic Virus (HTLV) types I and II, and West Nile Virus (WNV). Regulatory bodies, such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), mandate these protocols to maintain a safe blood supply. The tests employed are highly sensitive, designed to detect even low levels of these pathogens.
Results and Donor Notification
If a blood test yields a “reactive” result for an infectious agent, it indicates a potential positive finding, prompting further testing for confirmation. Donors are confidentially notified of confirmed positive test results. A confirmed positive result for a transfusion-transmissible infection leads to permanent deferral from future donations to protect the blood supply. This notification also advises the donor to seek medical consultation for their health.
Donor Eligibility Criteria
Before donating blood, potential donors complete a confidential health history questionnaire. This pre-screening process assesses donor suitability and helps safeguard the blood supply. The questions identify risk factors for infectious diseases or other conditions that could pose a risk to the donor or recipient. Certain behaviors or recent exposures, including those related to sexually transmitted infections like recent exposure to HIV or hepatitis, can result in temporary or permanent deferral from donating. This comprehensive screening ensures only eligible individuals contribute to the blood supply.