Scientific Journal of

  Abstract

 Background and Objectives

 In recent years we have been faced with more precise, multi-stage, and highly stringent blood donor screening criteria. The present study aimed at evaluating these criteria through comparing the rate of infection in blood donations with deferral rate for high-risk behaviors.

 Materials and Methods

 This descriptive analytic study was carried out in Esfahan Blood Transfusion Organization (EBTO) with census method through 2004 to 2009. Annual deferral rate due to high-risk behaviors and major viral markers were analyzed separately by using Pearson correlation. The data were obtained by Negareh software.

 Results

 The viral markers frequencies were 54, 45, 34, 25, 22 and 22 percent in volunteers that referred to EBTO from 2004 to 2009. Overall deferral rates due to high-risk behaviors were 3.69, 4.71, 5.29, 5.19, 3.93, and 4.04 percent, respectively. It had a slightly negative correlation with HBV (r=0.148 p=0.78) and HCV (r=0.165 p=0.75) markers.

 Conclusions

 Data showed that recent procedures of Iranian Blood Transfusion Organization declined viral markers considerably. However, slightly negative correlation of deferral rate due to TTDs with hepatitis B and C markers makes it necessary for donor selection criteria to be reviewed. More appropriate counselling procedures and post-donation counselling can help improve blood safety.