Comparative statistical analysis of donor count, deferral rate, and donor incidents before and since repeal of the upper donation age for blood donations

In accordance with the new German guidelines for the collection of blood and blood components and the use of blood products ("Richtlinie Hämotherapie") of 2023, an upper age limit as a criterion for suitability for blood donations was lifted by German Red Cross Blood Service West from November 13, 2023. There is currently limited published data on the effects of increasing the donation age on donor count, deferral rate, and donor incidents.

We compared two periods of 24 weeks each before and since November 13, 2023 in terms of donor count, deferral rate, and donor incidents. Distinctions were made between first-time and repeat donors. Before lifting the age limit, first-time donors were permitted to donate up to 60 yr and regular donors up to 68 yr (in medically justified cases up to 68 yr and 75 yr, respectively). Accordingly, control groups for first-time donors were set from 18-60 yr, 61-68 yr and older than 68 years. Repeat donors were assigned in groups of 18-68 yr, 69-75 yr and older than 75 yr. Regarding donor incidents, a distinction was made between severe and non-severe donor incidents. Statistical significance was determined by using the chi-square test.

The quantitative development of the donor count showed no significant change for first-time donors aged 18-60 years. There was a significant increase for first-time donors between 61-68 years old, and the same for repeat donors in both categories (18-68 yr and 69-75 yr, respectively). Regarding the deferrals for first-time donors, there was a significant increase in elderly donors. This is not reflected in the individual examination of the comparable age groups before and since the reference date (first-time/repeat donors between 18-68 years and 18-75 years showed no significant change in deferrals). Overall, there was no significant difference in donor incidents (neither severe nor non-severe incidents).

The results suggest that the removal of the upper age limit motivated first-time donors older than 60 yr as well as repeat donors of all age groups. This finding correlates with a higher deferral rate for first-time donors. An increase in severe or non-severe donor incidents was not observed. Without a significant increase in donor incidents, there is currently no indication that elderly donors approved for donation are at greater risk (possibly due to current rigorous preselection).

There is no conflict of interest.