Thalassemia Patients and Friends

Discussion Forums => Thalassemia Major => Topic started by: MikeD on September 11, 2013, 10:07:33 PM

Title: Can you donate blood as a thal minor trait carrier?
Post by: MikeD on September 11, 2013, 10:07:33 PM

I thought from my research that you could not donate however after contacting the red cross today they stated we could.  While im sure if anyone is correct on this matter that they are but wanted to poll some opinions on here.

Title: Re: Can you donate blood as a thal minor trait carrier?
Post by: Andy Battaglia on September 11, 2013, 10:51:49 PM

Hey Mike,

In the US it is based solely on your Hb or hematocrit level. If your level is normal, you can donate blood. Thal minor will not disqualify you from donating.

Title: Re: Can you donate blood as a thal minor trait carrier?
Post by: MikeD on September 11, 2013, 11:15:54 PM

Thanks Andy for confirming this.  Much appreciated.... myself and my wife both have appointments tomorrow.

Title: Re: Can you donate blood as a thal minor trait carrier?
Post by: JV on September 16, 2013, 06:01:50 PM

Hi Mike, my wife and I both donate 1-2 times a year. We are both minor and our counts range from 12-14

Title: Re: Can you donate blood as a thal minor trait carrier?
Post by: Pratik on September 18, 2013, 06:56:37 AM

Hi Mike,

My dad donates blood 2-3 times in an year. With me being major, he's minor obviously. So if you've good 12-13 Hb, I don't see any reason for them to reject. :)

-P.