Publication:

Impact of environmental factors on adverse events in whole blood donation

Background Whole blood for transfusion is essential in medical treatment; for surgeries, trauma treatment and managing diseases like anemia and cancer. However, the adverse reactions (ARs) such as vasovagal syncope, dizziness and fainting are still concerning for donor safety. Reactions are influenced by age, sex and general health status; however, the impact of environmental factors temperature, humidity and air quality are not well studied. The aim of this study was to examine environmental factors affecting the incidence and severity of adverse events during whole blood donation.

Methods Total of 170 voluntary whole blood donors were included in the study. Donor demographic, health and reporting records were obtained from the center during the study period. Environmental factors such as temperature, humidity and air quality were collected from monitoring stations located nearby the locality. Bivariate analyses using chi-square tests and logistic regression were performed to evaluate the relationship between environmental factors and adverse events.

Results Adverse events were observed in 15% of donors (12% mild and 3% severe). High temperatures (>25 C), relative humidity >60%, and AQI >70 were associated significantly with the increased rate of adverse events. High temperatures were significantly associated with more serious reactions, particularly in male donors, whereas high relative humidity was correlated with mild reactions among women.

Conclusions Environmental factors have greatly influenced on the incidence and severity of adverse reactions with whole blood donation. These results indicate the importance of adjusting environmental parameters such as temperature, humidity and air quality in blood donation centers for donor safety and comfort.