Impact of Donor History on the Risk of Transfusion-Related Infections

Abstract Background Transfusion-related infections are a severe threat to the safety of transfusing blood products, internationally. Advances in screening procedures have not, nevertheless, rendered blood transfusion a risk-free procedure for transmitting infectious disease. Donor history, including previous donation history, medical conditions, and high-risk behavior, may influence transfusion-related infections. Objective The objective of this study was to determine donors’ histories that could influence the possibility of transfusion-related infections. Methods The cross-sectional study was done in January 2022 to December 2023 at KTRH. Out of 108 blood transfusions, data for 108 patients were retrieved from patient medical records and donor screening forms. Variables such as HIV and Hepatitis among donor medical conditions, previous donation history, and high-risk behaviors such as intravenous drug use were analyzed for their link with TRIs. The diagnosis of TRIs was established based on the results of a clinical examination and laboratory tests. Using descriptive statistics as well as Chi-square tests and logistic regression, data were analyzed. Results Of the total transfusion sample (n=108), 15 (13.9%) recipients developed infections after transfusion; in these cases, 4.6% had Hepatitis B infections, whereas 3.7% had HIV infections and 5.6% had malaria infections. Past donor experience and risky behavior, which include intravenous drug uses and other risky sexual practices, show a significant association between the increased risk of TRIs (p < 0.05). The odds of transfusion-transmitted infections among repeat donors as compared to first-time donors were marginally high (p=0.04). These independent risk factors for transfusion-related infections were hepatitis B and HIV. Conclusion The current study calls for a deliberate consideration of donor history, especially previous donation records, medical conditions, and high-risk behaviors, in the prevention of transfusion-related infections. Improved donor screening protocols and monitoring of high-risk behaviors can further enhance safety in blood transfusion. Future research should investigate their effectiveness in targeted intervention strategies among high-risk donor populations.