A new study has a warning for young blood donors. It says they are the ones that are most likely to experience adverse reactions to blood donations.
The finding comes at a time when the demand to maintain a safe blood supply is challenged by a decrease in eligible adult donors.
Researchers at the national headquarters of the American Red Cross analyzed about 145,000 teenage donations in 2006. They found the majority of adverse reactions in the youngest donors were mild, including lightheadedness and dizziness.
But a small percentage also experienced fainting or a loss of consciousness -- and a handful became physically injured after collapsing.
This study indicates a need for awareness and preparedness, especially at high school blood drives, said to Dr. Anne Eder, the executive medical officer at the American Red Cross.
"In 16 and 17 year olds, 11 per cent will experience a reaction, compared to eight per cent of 18 and 19 year olds and about three per cent of donors older than 20 years," she said.
Injuries to young donors usually occur after they make a donation in the refreshment area of the blood drive, in a restroom or another area of the school.
"It is important to have well-trained staff to recognize and treat reactions," Dr. Eder said.
"We collect this data so that we can understand what's going on and so that we can evaluate the steps that we take, hopefully to improve safety."
It's not entirely clear why young blood donors are more likely to experience these reactions. Researchers believe the way teens respond to emotional and physical stress may account for part of the reason.
In Canada, Canadian Blood Services can accept blood donations from teens as young as 17 without seeking permission from their parents.
The study appears this week in the Journal of the American Medical Association.
For more information or to donate, call Canadian Blood Services at 604-221-5515.
With a report from CTV British Columbia's Dr. Rhonda Low
