Blood donor candidates and blood donations performed between 2005 and 2019 in Minas Gerais, Brazil: A time series analysis

ABSTRACT Introduction: Time series studies related to blood donor candidates and blood donations are rare in Brazil. Population aging suggests a better understanding of the context related to blood donor candidates and blood donations performed. Objective: The monthly series of candidates eligible to donate blood and actual donations between 2005 and 2019 at the Hemominas Foundation, Minas Gerais, Brazil, were described and analyzed. Methods: Ten time series were constructed of blood donor candidates and blood donations. Each series covered the period from January 2005 to December 2019. The stationarity of the series was verified by the unit root test; the data distribution, by the Shapiro-Wilk test; the trend, by the Cox-Stuart test, and; the seasonality, by the Fisher's test (significance levels of 10% for the first test and 5% for the last three). Results: All series were identified as non-stationary and presented trend and seasonality components. The rate of blood donor candidates and the rate of blood donations performed evidenced a positive upward trend until the last two-year analysis, when a drop occurred, from 1.75% and 1.42% in 2017 to 1.64% and 1.35% in 2019, respectively. The rate of blood donations trended downward, from 0.054% in 2005 to 0.046% in 2019. The proportion of unsuitable or unretained candidates reduced. Conclusion: The study emphasized the need to stimulate blood donation by specific groups and increase ways to reduce the demand for blood components through the implementation of programs that expand alternatives to blood transfusions.

Thought, attitudes, and practices of the anatomy departments on receiving and embalming cadavers during the pandemic process / Pensamiento, actitudes y prácticas de los departamentos de anatomía sobre la recepción y embalsamamiento de cadáveres durante el proceso pandémico

SUMMARY: During the Covid-19 pandemic that has marked the last years, while governments tried to control the spread of the virus, many-body donation programs were suspended due to difficulties that could potentially be encountered. Given the low body donation acceptance rates during this period, through this study we aimed to evaluate academics' knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors in cadaver acceptance and embalming practices during the pandemic. The research population of th estudy consisted of the faculty of 112 universities in Turkey who taught in under graduate and graduate programs in the Anatomy Department in 2020. An electronic questionnaire of 24 items, including demographic data, was distributed to the participants' official e-mail addresses. In addition, support was received from the Turkish Anatomy and Clinical Anatomy Society, whose members were also approached through their official group e-mail accounts. Answers were collected from 78 (39 %) out of 200 academics. The findings of the study were under 5 headings (ınformation about cadaver donation and ımported cadavers, attitude towards ımportation of cadavers and acceptance of body donations, precautions against contagion in ımportation of cadavers and acceptance of body donations and thoughts on their adequacy, considerations for adoption of cadavers for post-graduation education, advice on avoiding contagion in cadaver embalming) were collected and analyzed. The study high lights the importance of cadaver acceptance and embalming practices for medical education to minimally continue in the post-pandemic period. It can also serve as a reference for being cautious when faced with similar situations in the future.

RESUMEN: Durante la pandemia de COVID-19, que ha marcado los últimos años, mientras los gobiernos intentaban controlar la propagación del virus, muchos programas de donación de cuerpos fueron suspendidos por las dificultades que se podían encontrar. Dadas las bajas tasas de aceptación de la donación de cuerpos durante este período, a través de este estudio buscamos evaluar el conocimiento, las actitudes y los comportamientos de los académicos en la aceptación de cadáveres y las prácticas de embalsamamiento durante la pandemia. El estudio se realizó el año 2020 en los programas de pregrado y posgrado de los Departamentos de Anatomía de 112 universidades de Turquía. Se distribuyó un cuestionario electrónico de 24 ítems, incluidos datos demográficos, a los participantes por correo electrónico oficial. Además, se recibió el apoyo de la Sociedad Turca de Anatomía y Anatomía Clínica, cuyos miembros también fueron contactados a través de las cuentas de correo electrónico de su grupo oficial. Se recopilaron respuestas de 78 (39 %) de 200 académicos. Los hallazgos del estudio se ubicaron en 5 encabezados (información sobre donación de cadáveres y cadáveres importados, actitud hacia la importación de cadáveres y aceptación de donaciones de cuerpos, precauciones contra el contagio en la importación de cadáveres y aceptación de donaciones de cuerpos y opiniones sobre su idoneidad, consideraciones para la adopción de cadáveres para la educación de posgrado y consejos para evitar el contagio en el embalsamamiento de cadáveres). El estudio destaca la importancia de la aceptación de cadáveres y las prácticas de embalsamamiento para que la educación médica continúe mínimamente en el período posterior a la pandemia. También puede servir como referencia para tenerse presente ante situaciones similares en el futuro.

Analysis on testing ability of blood testing laboratories in domestic blood establishments across China / 中国输血杂志

【Objective】 To analyze testing ability of blood testing laboratories in domestic blood establishments, and to comprehensively understand the resource allocation, workload and unqualified blood samples. 【Methods】 All blood testing laboratories reported the quarterly quality indicator data via their EQA system on the website of National Center for Clinical Laboratories (https: //srv.clinet.cn/qblood/report/add1.aspx). We collected related quality indicators throughout 2020, including resource indicators, number of sample detection, and number (rate) of unqualified samples. All the data were integrated by EQA system. 【Results】 1) Throughout 2020, 324 blood testing laboratories reported that 13 529 778 donations were tested by immunoassays and 13 892 927 donations were tested by nucleic acid testing(NAT). Among them, 253 laboratories reported the data correctly throughout four quarters, and they tested 12 015 407 donations. 2) The number of equipment varied greatly among different laboratories, and a certain equipment was often overloaded in some laboratories. 3) The proportion of domestic ELISA reagents was 100% (322/322), while the proportion of imported NAT reagents was 75.33% (220/300). 4) The positive rate of HBsAg was closely related to geographical locations, as Sichuan (0.86%, 5 895/689 445), Guangdong (0.57%, 5 147/895 929), and Guangxi (0.53%, 3 021/573 216) provinces demonstrated higher positive rates than that of other provincial regions. 【Conclusions】 There are many blood stations across China, with great differences in scale and equipment. There are obvious differences in the positive rates of infectious indicators in different regions. Therefore, the laboratory should make horizontal comparison with the laboratories in the same region, to improve the detection quality of the laboratory in time and effectively.

Profile of apheresis donors at Professor Alberto Antunes University Hospital of the Federal University of Alagoas

Hemotherapy services play a key role in attracting donors and providing safe blood to the population. The apher-esis platelet collection procedure is a relatively simple, safe and important procedure for increasing the stocks of these services. However, the recruitment and retention of these donors still represent a major challenge. Objec-tive: Evaluating the profile of donors of blood components by apheresis in the Transfusion Unit of Professor Alberto Antunes University Hospital - UFAL, as well as knowing the hematological parameters pre- and post-donation, the occurrence of the main adverse events related to the procedure and the difficulties faced by the donor. Method:This was a cross-sectional observational study. We analyzed a total of 160 forms of apheresis donors from March 2017 to June 2018. The data were tabulated using the Excel program, and then analyzed in order to determine the objectives. Results: Most donors were male (93.13%), aged between 25 and 40 years (48.75%) and brown (25.62%). There was a slight prevalence of singles (49.37%) and 73.75% were from Maceió. The most prevalent ABO and Rh phenotyping was O+ (39.3%). Most of the procedures were simple platelet collection (75.60%) and the occurrence of adverse events during donations was 30.63%. Conclusion: Evaluation of apheresis donor profile and the knowledge of the possible side effects related to the procedure provided a better understanding of this type of donation and may improve the capture and retention processes of these individuals, minimizing the effects of lack of blood for Alagoana population. (AU)

Os serviços de hemoterapia desempenham um papel fundamental na atração de doadores e no fornecimento de sangue seguro à população. No entanto, o recrutamento e a retenção desses doadores ainda representam um gran-de desafio. Objetivo: Avaliar o perfil dos doadores de hemocomponentes por aférese na Unidade de Transfusão do Hospital Universitário Professor Alberto Antunes - UFAL, bem como conhecer os parâmetros hematológicos pré e pós-doação, a ocorrência dos principais eventos adversos relacionados à procedimento e as dificuldades enfrenta-das pelo doador. Método: Estudo observacional transversal. Foram analisadas 160 fichas de doadores de aférese de março de 2017 a junho de 2018. Os dados foram tabulados no programa Excel e analisados para determinar os objetivos. Resultados: A maioria dos doadores era do sexo masculino (93,13%), com idade entre 25 e 40 anos (48,75%) e parda (25,62%). Houve uma leve prevalência de solteiros (49,37%) e 73,75% eram de Maceió. A feno-tipagem ABO e Rh mais prevalente foi O+ (39,3%). A maioria dos procedimentos foi de coleta simples de plaquetas (75,60%) e a ocorrência de eventos adversos durante as doações foi de 30,63%. Conclusão: A avaliação do perfil do doador de aférese e o conhecimento dos possíveis efeitos colaterais relacionados ao procedimento proporcio-naram uma melhor compreensão sobre esse tipo de doação e podem ajudar a melhorar os processos de captura e retenção desses indivíduos, minimizando os efeitos da falta de sangue para a população Alagoana.(AU)

The impact of ceasing mutual blood donation on voluntary blood donation in Guangzhou / 中国输血杂志

【Objective】 To investigate the impact of ceasing mutual blood donation on voluntary blood donation in Guangzhou. 【Methods】 The data of blood donation from July 2016 to December 2019 (42-month before and after the official cease of mutual blood donation) in the Blood Collection and Supply System of Guangzhou Blood Center, including whole blood donations and apheresis platelets donations, were collected for interrupted time series analysis by month. Blood donors who donated (either whole blood or platelets) during 2016 were followed up until December 31, 2019, and the re-donation rate was analyzed by Chi-square test, t test and logistic regression analysis. 【Results】 The results showed that ceasing mutual blood donation had a significantly positive effect on the increase of platelet donations, but had no significant effect on whole blood donation. In 2016, whole blood donations and platelet donations were mainly voluntary (86.4% and 60.8%, respectively). In comparison of voluntary blood donation, the overall blood deferral rate(by dual assays) of mutual blood donation was higher (P<0.01), but the difference diminished as they donated twice or more. The re-donation rate of blood donors (mutual non-remunerated, voluntary, or both) all increased after the ceasing of mutual blood donation (mutual non-remunerated, : 4.7% vs 4.0%, χ2=29.8, P<0.01; voluntary: 24.8% vs 9.9%, χ2=17295.3, P<0.01; both: 36.3% vs 28.1%, χ2=29.3, P<0.01). The re-donation rate of mutual platelet donors decreased after the ceasing of mutual blood donation, but the number of voluntary platelet donors increased. 【Conclusion】 The ceasing of mutual blood donation was in favour of voluntary blood donation in Guangzhou since various means had been previously adopted by Guangzhou Blood Center to create a long-term mechanism of voluntary blood donation. The number of voluntary blood donors has increased, and the clinical use of blood has been further guaranteed.

Characteristics of blood donors under COVID-19 epidemic in Tianjin / 中国输血杂志

【Objective】 To study and analyze the basic characteristics of blood donors under the COVID-19 epidemic in Tianjin area, so as to provide data support for improving the blood collection for emergency incidents. 【Methods】 The blood collection data of Tianjin Blood Center under the COVID-19 epidemic in 2020 were collected in terms of the number of blood donations, changes in blood donation units over time, group blood donation, donations given by regular blood donors and donations inside fixed blood donation sites, registered residence, gender, age, education, occupation, individual donation, group donation, and the annual daily blood collection and delivery data in Tianjin. 【Results】 The number of blood donations and donation units in Feb 2020 decreased by 56.96%(3 226/7 496-1)and 62.40%(5 382/14 314.5-1)compared with the same period in 2019, and decreased by 56.87%(3 226/7 480-1)and 60.70%(5 382/13 695.7-1)compared with the average value in the previous five years. The number of blood donations, donation units and rate of 400 mL donation in 2020 decreased by 13.25%(119 107/137 293-1), 17.7%(205 196.5/249 405-1)and 12.83%(66.0/75.8-1)respectively. Meanwhile the units of group donation increased by 22.59%(44 118.5/35 989.0-1)as compared with those in 2019. The proportion of regular blood donors raised up to 17.31%(20 623/119 107, which was the highest in recent 6 years. During the epidemic period, the number of blood donations of local registered residence, women, over 36 years old, with bachelor and above degree increased by varied extent compared with previous years. Workers, staff members and others were the main groups of voluntary blood donation, and civil servant, medical workers, farmers and teachers also played a certain role during the epidemic. 【Conclusion】 The clinical blood use in Tianjin was basically guaranteed during the COVID-19 epidemic. It is suggested to further optimize the structure of voluntary blood donors, establish a diversified and multi-level group blood donation team, and increase the number of regular blood donors.

Factores intervinientes para la ejecución del presupuesto de donaciones y transferencias en el Hospital Regional Lambayeque -Perú / Intervening factors for the execution of the budget for donations and transfers at the Lambayeque Regional Hospital - Perú

Objetivo: Determinar los factores intervinientes para la ejecución del presupuesto de donaciones y transferencias en el Hospital Regional Lambayeque. Material y Métodos: No experimental, descriptivo, enfoque cuantitativo, corte transversal, durante el 2019. Población y muestra fue 57 colaboradores, muestreo no probabilístico, por conveniencia. Se utilizó instrumento Oria divididos en: factor institucional, factor político, factor organizacional y factor personal, la confiabilidad mediante alfa de Cronbach; además se usó la prueba de Kolmogorov-Sminorv para la normalidad de la población; y para la significancia estadística el análisis descriptivo. Hallazgos: el nivel de intervención medio 3,444 para la variable factores intervinientes siendo el factor más resaltante el Político (media 3,7222) y el ítem más resaltante (84%) referido al papeleo de los procesos administrativos, retrasa la ejecución presupuestal de gastos. Conclusiones: Existe un nivel de intervención medio de los factores intervinientes para la ejecución de presupuesto de donaciones y transferencias del hospital Regional Lambayeque.

Objective: To determine the factors involved in the implementation of the donation and transfer budget at the Lambayeque Regional Hospital. Material and Methods: Not experimental, descriptive, quantitative approach, cross-section, during 2019. Population and sample was 57 collaborators, non-probabilistic sampling, for convenience. The Oria instrument was divided into : institutional factor, political factor, organizational factor and personal factor, reliability by Cronbach alpha; in addition, the Kolmogorov- Sminorv test was used for the normality of the population; and for statistical significance the descriptive analysis. Findings: the average intervention level of 3,444 for the variable factors involved being the most outstanding factor the Politician (average 3,7222) and the most outstanding item (84%) referring to the paperwork of the administrative processes, delays the budgetary execution of expenses. Conclusions: There is a medium level of intervention of the factors involved in the execution of the donation and transfer budget of the Lambayeque Regional Hospital.

New mothers and their understanding about breast milk donation / Puérperas e sua compreensão sobre a doação de leite humano

Abstract Objective: to analyze the understanding of mothers about the donation of human milk. Methods: a qualitative and quantitative study with 13 potential milk donors who answered a sociodemographic and obstetric background questionnaire, as well as a semi-structured interview guide on milk donation. Mothers were approached in the hospital environment, after delivery and the visit of the milk bank. Data were analyzed in Statistical Package for Social Sciences 20.0 and NVivo 11 Starter. Results: the mean age was 24.62 ± 3.95 years; 84.6% had more than eleven years of formal education; 38.5% declared themselves housewives; 46.2% were in a stable union and 76.9% had an income of up to two minimum wages. Most of the mothers (69.2%) experienced previous pregnancy; 76.9% had 6 or more prenatal consultations and 62.5% had previously breastfed. The motivating factors of the donation were altruism; empathy with other mothers; recognition of the primacy of breast milk; the child's understanding of breast milk need; excess milk production and family support. Unawareness of the process, limited time available, and lack of transportation and collection points can make donation difficult. Conclusions: there was a desire for information and support for breastfeeding and donation, which made the donation act complex and distant from reality.

Resumo Objetivos: analisar a compreensão de puérperas sobre a doação de leite humano. Métodos: estudo quali-quantitativo, com 13 potenciais doadoras de leite, que responderam a um questionário sociodemográfico e de antecedentes obstétricos, além de um roteiro de entrevista semiestruturado sobre doação de leite. As puérperas foram abordadas no ambiente hospitalar, após o parto e a visita do banco de leite. Os dados foram analisados no Statistical Package for Social Sciences 20.0 e NVivo 11 Starter. Resultados: a idade média foi de 24,62±3,95 anos; 84,6% possuíam mais de onze anos de escolaridade formal; 38,5% se autodeclararam do lar; 46,2% estava em união estável e 76,9% possuía renda de até dois salários mínimos. A maioria (69,2%) vivenciou gestação anterior; 76,9% realizaram 6 ou mais consultas pré-natais e 62,5% amamentaram anteriormente. Os fatores motivadores da doação foram o altruísmo; a empatia com outras mães; o reconhecimento da primazia do leite materno; a compreensão da necessidade leite materno pela criança; o excesso de produção láctea e o apoio de familiares. O desconhecimento do processo, o pouco tempo disponível, a falta de transporte e postos de coleta, podem dificultar a doação. Conclusões: foi evidenciado anseio por informações e apoio ao aleitamento materno e à doação, o que tornou a doação ato complexo e distante da realidade.

Caracterização nutricional e sociodemográfica de lactantes: uma revisão sistemática / Nutritional and sociodemographic characteristics of nursing mothers: a systematic review

Resumo Revisão sistemática da caracterização nutricional e sociodemográfica de lactantes, por meio da literatura publicada entre 2004-2014, indexadas na Biblioteca Virtual de Saúde e Medline. Foram identificados 561 artigos com os descritores: "Leite Humano" e "Bancos de Leite"; palavras-chave: "Perfil", "Nutricional", "Doadoras de leite", "Nutriz" e "Nutrizes"; resumos disponíveis; data e idioma. Destes, 84,1% foram excluídos por não atenderem a temática, 1,8% por se tratarem de revisão e 7,5% por estarem indisponíveis para consulta. Foram selecionados 37 artigos, dos quais, 18,9% analisaram o perfil da doadora de LH. Do total, 89,2% referiram a idade, maioria entre 20 e 30 anos. Nível de escolaridade foi mencionado em 32,4%, variando entre ensino fundamental e superior. Quanto à renda, encontrou-se predominância de baixo nível socioeconômico. No âmbito nutricional, 45,9% dos estudos avaliaram o Índice de Massa Corporal e 29,4% o relataram na faixa de excesso de peso. Observaram-se carências, sobretudo de vitamina A, com as frequências de inadequações entre 9-26%. Observou-se predominância de adultas jovens, escolaridade variada, baixa renda e deficiências nutricionais demandando intervenções para contribuir na melhoria da saúde e aumento das doações de LH.

Abstract A systematic review of nutritional and sociodemographic characteristics of nursing mothers, using the published literature from 2004 to 2014 in the Biblioteca Virtual de Saúde and Medline databases. Using the following key words, 561 articles were identified: "Human Milk" and "Milk Banks"; keywords: "Profile," "Nutritional," "Milk Donor," "Nursing Mother" and "Nursing Mothers"; available abstracts; date and language. From these, 84.1% were excluded for not dealing with the established subject, 1.8% for being a review and 7.5% for the unavailability of abstracts for study. Thirty-seven articles were selected, of which 18.9% analyzed the profile of the HM donor. Of the total, 89.2% reported age, the majority between 20 and 30 years of age. The level of schooling was mentioned in 32.4% ranging from elementary school and higher education. With respect to income, a higher prevalence of low socioeconomic status was observed. About the nutritional status, 45.9% of the studies measured the body mass index and 29.4% reported the predominance of excess weight. There were deficiencies, particularly of vitamin A, with frequencies between 9% and 26%. A majority of young adult mothers, varied schooling, low income and nutritional deficiencies were noted, demanding interventions to improve health and increase HM donations.

Hiperentorno educativo sobre infecciones transmitidas por la sangre / Educational hypercontext on infections transmitted by blood

Con el objetivo de elevar los conocimientos acerca de medicina transfusional en profesionales de la salud que cursan el posgrado, se decidió elaborar un producto informático que incluyera los temas correspondientes a la transmisión de infecciones bacterianas por medio de la sangre y las medidas de prevención para lograr una hemoterapia de mayor seguridad. Dicho producto fue desarrollado en la plataforma virtual Chreasoft 3.2, y en él aparecen diferentes módulos que enlazan imágenes y texto, lo cual posibilita una mejor comprensión de la materia y contribuye a motivar el aprendizaje

With the objective of increasing the knowledge about transfusional medicine in postdegree students health professionals, it was decided to elaborate a computer product that included the topics corresponding to the transmission of bacterial infections by means of blood and the preventive measures to achieve a safer hemotherapy. This product was developed in the Chreasoft 3.2 virtual platform, in which different units appear connecting images and text, that facilitates a better understanding of the matter and contributes to motivate the learning

Knowledge, Awareness and Attitudes on Organ Donation among Undergraduate Medical Students in Malaysia: An Analytical Cross Sectional Study.

There is a shortage of organs for transplant globally. Malaysia has one of the lowest deceased organ donation rates in the world. The shortage in organ supply is perceived to be due to a lack of awareness and knowledge among the public and health care providers, particularly the medical students in Malaysia. Objective: The present study was conducted to assess the knowledge, attitudes and perception, to determine the prevalence of organ donors and establishing a relationship between various socio-demographic data on knowledge, awareness and perception of organ donation among private undergraduate medical students in Malaysia. Methods: This observational analytical cross-sectional study was carried out by using the questionnaire method. The questionnaire was categorized into four sections (demographic data, Knowledge, Willingness and Attitude). The data was analysed by using Epi Info version 7.0. For inferential statistics, chi-square and independent t-test were used. The socio-demographic data were then compared with the knowledge, awareness and perception data collected and ANOVA (analysis of variance) was performed. Results: This study involved 372 medical students. Only 21.2% have good knowledge on organ transplant. 71.2% of students were willing to register for organ donation but only 14.5% were registered donors. There is a significant positive low correlation (r=0.346) between knowledge score and the willingness to donate organs. The older respondents (P=0.043), male gender (P=0.018) and Indian students (P=0.018) are more likely to have higher knowledge score on organ donations. The higher the parent’s education level, the more willing are students to donate their organs (P=0.013, P=0.014). Hindus are 2.37 times and Buddhist are 2.08 times more likely to have a positive attitude towards organ donation when compared against Muslims (P=0.019, P=0.014). Conclusion: The prevalence of registered organ donors is higher among medical students compared to the general population in the country. The knowledge of organ donations among medical students is only moderate and hence can be improved through better awareness programs and more structured lectures. High knowledge level on organ donations lead to higher willingness and more positive attitude towards organ donations.

¿ Es útil la prueba de lipemia predonación para la selección de donantes de sangre? / Is the pre-donation lipemia test useful for blood donor selection?

En el Banco de Sangre Provincial de Cienfuegos se incluye, además de las pruebas reguladas en Cuba para la selección de los donantes de sangre, la prueba de lipemia predonación. Un plasma con apariencia turbia es causa de exclusión transitoria del donante. A fin de evaluar la eficacia diagnóstica de esta prueba se realizaron dos estimaciones visuales del plasma en busca de turbidez, la primera antes de donar y la segunda en la unidad de plasma obtenida a partir de la sangre total colectada, esta última utilizada como prueba de referencia para este estudio. Ambas observaciones fueron realizadas por el mismo observador siguiendo un protocolo establecido. Como parte del estudio, la presencia de una prueba de lipemia positiva predonación no constituyó causa de exclusión de donantes. Se calculó la sensibilidad y especificidad diagnóstica, el valor predictivo positivo (VPP) y el valor predictivo negativo (VPN), además la eficiencia de la prueba dentro de un intervalo de confianza del 95 por ciento. Se obtuvo el 98,4 por ciento de especificidad, el 80 por ciento de sensibilidad, así como el 66,6 por ciento de valor predictivo positivo y el 99,0 por ciento de valor predictivo negativo, con el 95,7 por ciento de eficiencia diagnóstica. La prueba resulta útil en la selección de donantes de sangre y se recomienda su uso en todas las dependencias de colecta de sangre que cuenten con las condiciones técnicas para su realización...

In addition to the Cuban regulated tests for donor selection, the Cienfuegos provincial blood bank uses a predonation lipemia test. The present study evaluates the diagnostic efficacy of this test. Two visual estimates of plasma for turbidity were performed: the first before donation and the second one to the plasma unit obtained from the whole blood collected, this one used as a reference test for this study. Both observations were made by the same observer following an established protocol. As part of the study, the presence of a positive test predonation lipemia was not cause for excluding donors. Diagnostic sensitivity and specificity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) and efficiency of the test within a confidence interval of 95 percent were calculated. We obtained 98,4 percent specificity, 80 percent sensitivity and 66,6 percent positive predictive value and 99,0 percent negative predictive value, with 95,7 percent diagnostic accuracy. The test is useful for the selection of blood donors and we recommended its use in all blood collection services having technical conditions for its fulfillment...

Evolution of blood donation patterns in a Hospital-based Blood Centre over a seven-year period: implications for donor recruitment and retention / Evolución de los patrones de donación de sangre en un Centro Hematológico Hospitalario durante un período de siete años: implicaciones para el reclutamiento y la retención de donantes

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of a public appeal to encourage voluntary blood donation by comparing the pattern of blood donations in 2000 and 2007. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of blood donation records was conducted at the University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI) Blood Collection Centre from April to December of2000 and 2007. Data were analysed to identify any significant changes in donation patterns and donor profiles. RESULTS: The total number of blood donor records reviewed was 3194 in 2000 and 2634 in 2007 representing 69.0% and 72.3% of the total blood donations, respectively. Autologous donations accounted for 1% in 2000 and 2.2% in 2007; however, there was no corresponding change in voluntary donations (3.4% in 2000 and 3.2% in 2007). Despite a reduction in the number of first-time donors (1539 in 2000 and 1115 in 2007), the percentage of units discarded for the presence of a marker of transfusion transmission infection (TTI) increased, being 6.5% in 2000 and 7.4% in 2007. Human T-lymphotropic virus (HTLV) was the most common infectious marker in 2000 (3.4% of donors) whereas reactive Venereal Disease Research Laboratory (VDRL) predominated in 2007 (3.6% of donors). CONCLUSION: The per capita donations (0.99% in 2000 and 0.88% in 2007) failed to meet the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendation for an adequate blood supply of 1-3%. Despite a national effort to improve voluntary donations, the positive changes in the pattern of blood donation over a period of seven years were limited to a decrease in the proportion of first-time donors and an increase in blood donors with one to four previous donations.

OBJETIVO: El objetivo de este estudio es investigar el efecto de un llamado público para fomentar la donación voluntaria de sangre, comparando el patrón de las donaciones de sangre en 2000 y 2007. Métodos: Se realizó un análisis retrospectivo de expedientes de donación de sangre en el Centro de recogida de sangre del Hospital Universitario de West Indies desde abril a diciembre de 2000 y 2007. Los datos fueron analizados para identificar cambios significativos en los patrones de donación y perfiles de donantes. RESULTADOS: El número total de registros de donantes de sangre revisados fue 3194 en 2000 y 2634 en 2007, lo que representa el 69,0% y 72,3% del total de las donaciones de sangre, respectivamente. Las donaciones autólogas representaron el 1% en el año 2000 y el 2.2% en 2007. Sin embargo, no hubo un cambio correspondiente con respecto a las donaciones voluntarias (3.4% en el año 2000 y 3.2% en 2007). A pesar de la reducción en el número de donantes primerizos (1539 en 2000 y 1115 en 2007), aumentó el porcentaje de unidades descartadas por la presencia de un marcador de infección transmitida por transfusión, que fue de un 6.5% en 2000 y 7,4% en 2007. El virus linfotrópico humano de células T (HTLV) fue el marcador de infecciones más común en el año 2000 (3.4% de los donantes) mientras que las pruebas reactivas del Laboratorio de Investigación de Enfermedades Venéreas (VDRL), predominaron en 2007 (3.6% de los donantes). CONCLUSIÓN: Las donaciones per cápita (0.99% en el año 2000 y 0.88% en 2007) no cumplieron con la recomendación de la Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS) en cuanto a un adecuado suministro de sangre de 1-3%. A pesar del esfuerzo nacional por mejorar las donaciones voluntarias, los cambios positivos en el patrón de la donación de sangre durante un período de siete años, se limitaron a una disminución en la proporción de donantes primerizos, un aumento de los donantes de sangre con una a cuatro donaciones previas.

A propósito de la primera edición de un boletín informativo del Sistema de Vigilancia del Banco de Sangre de Cienfuegos / With regards to the first edition of a newsletter about the surveillance syste of the Cienfuegos Blood Bank

La vigilancia en salud constituye un componente de trabajo obligado para todos los profesionales de este sector con la finalidad de lograr que los resultados de las acciones de vigilancia sean el modelo en que se inspiren todos los que se dedican a esta actividad, por lo que es necesario proveerles de información oportuna y válida que permita la toma de decisiones mßs adecuadas en aras de resolver los múltiples eventos que puedan afectar la salud nuestra población. Con este ánimo, la Dirección del Banco de Sangre Provincial de Cienfuegos realiza la edición trimestral de un boletín informativo dirigido fundamentalmente a las instituciones de la provincia que conforman la red de bancos de sangre, las autoridades sanitarias de los diferentes niveles de dirección, los centros productores de hemoderivados y el Centro Estatal para el Control de Medicamentos, para lograr que la información que se obtenga de la realización de las actividades de vigilancia sea difundida y posibilite la adopción de acciones de prevención y control más efectivas, oportunas y dinámicas en los diferentes niveles

Health surveillance is a compulsory component in the work of all health professionals, and is aimed at ensuring that the results of surveillance actions are a model inspiring all those engaged in this activity. This is the reason why it is necessary to provide them with timely, valid information enabling the taking of the most appropriate decisions with a view to resolving the many events that may affect the health of our population. It is with this purpose that the Management of Cienfuegos Provincial Blood Bank publishes a quarterly newsletter mainly intended for the institutions making up the provincial network of blood banks, health authorities from the various management levels, blood product manufacturing centers, and the State Drug Control Center, to ensure that the information obtained from the conduct of surveillance activities is disseminated, thus enabling the adoption of more effective, timely and dynamic prevention and control actions at the various levels

Sangre segura en ausencia de infecciones virales por VHB, VHC y VIH en período de ventana serológica de donadores

OBJETIVO: Determinar la prevalencia de infecciones virales (VHB, VHC y VIH) en período de ventana serológica en donadores de sangre evaluados con la prueba de ácidos nucleicos (NAT). MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Se incluyeron donadores de sangre evaluados de 2008 a 2009 con pruebas serológicas y moleculares del VHB, VHC y VIH. El período de ventana serológica se definió con la prueba de NAT positiva y la prueba serológica negativa. RESULTADOS: Durante un año se evaluaron 47 847 donadores de sangre; no se identificó ningún caso con infección viral (VHB, VHC y VIH) en período de ventana serológica; únicamente se demostró NAT positivo en donadores con pruebas serológicas positivas: 26 de 78 con VHB, 56 de 318 con VHC y 16 de 155 con VIH. CONCLUSIÓN: Este es el primer estudio en México que demostró en donadores de sangre la ausencia de infecciones virales (VHB, VHC y VIH) en período de ventana serológica con la prueba de NAT.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of viral infections (HBV, HCV and HIV) in serological window period in blood donors screened with nucleic acid testing (NAT). MATERIALS AND METHODS: We assessed all blood donors from July 2008 to June 2009 at the Central Blood Bank of the Mexican Institute of Social Security. Medical history was made and provided an information brochure and self-exclusion questionnaire. All blood donors were tested with serological tests (Ag-HBVs, Anti-HCV and Anti-HIV) and molecular testing with NAT for HBV, HCV and HIV. The window period was defined with the positive NAT and negative serological test. RESULTS: During one year, we evaluated 47 847 blood donors. None subject was identified with viral infection (HBV, HCV and HIV) in serological window period. Positive serological testing were found for HBV in 78 (0.2 percent), 318 (0.7 percent) for HCV and 155 (0.3 percent) for HIV. Positive NAT was demonstrated only in donors with positive serology: 26 of 78 with HBV, 56 of 318 with HCV and 16 of 155 with HIV. CONCLUSION: This is the first study in México showed no viral infections (HBV, HCV and HIV) during serological window period in blood donors; The medical history and the self-exclusion questionnaire help to improve blood transfusion safety.

Organs: God gifted assets.

The organ shortage is not a medical problem, but a social one. There is a need for greater community awareness and co-operation for organ donation. This is governed by Human Organ Transplantation Act 1994 to regulate organ transplants and promote donations from cadavers. Sadly there is a large gap between the number of suffering patients and those who donate organs. The law itself needs change to rationalize the organ donation in order to stop the illegal trade of organs, because if the dying can’t get organ from dead, they will buy them from the living.

An Ethical Discussion on the Case of Intra-vital Organ Donations between Relatives / 中国医学伦理学

This study based on an ethical review of the kidney donation from a young man to his elder relative.We discuss the problems existing in present field of intra-vital organ transplantations,as well as its risk and the ethics review mode.It is recommended that ethics review is performed as a complete procedure,which should not only present in certain format,but also emphasize weighing the advantages and disadvantages of both patients and donors;intra-vital organ transplantations between relatives should also follow the principle of "no compensation and non-commercialization";hospitals should give out the judgment under sufficient considerations of both patients' and donors' benefits within the scope of laws,as well as taking into account of other factors such as prospective outcome of the operations,rather than barely basing on the risk probabilities.