A Pilot Iron Substitution Program in Female Blood Donors With Iron Deficiency Without Anemia

The study conducted a pilot iron substitution program for premenopausal female blood donors with iron deficiency but without anemia. It involved 116 women aged ≤50 with adequate hemoglobin levels and serum ferritin ≤10 ng/ml, who were offered iron supplementation for 16 weeks. The program aimed to prevent anemia and improve donor retention. Results showed a significant increase in serum ferritin levels (from 7.12 to 25.2 ng/ml) and resolution of symptoms such as fatigue, sleep disturbances, and hair loss. No cases of anemia were reported, and 60% of participants completed the program and donated blood again. The study concluded that targeted iron supplementation effectively prevented anemia and enhanced donor return rates.