People with high blood pressure are less likely to donate blood, and one study found that blacks are more likely to be hypertensive than whites. Blood pressure data was collected from 116,270 donors between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017. In addition to ethnicity, blood pressure was measured for individuals of both sexes. Regardless of ethnicity, blood pressure was significantly lower among white donors compared to blacks.
Non-Hispanic black donors showed higher percentages of hypertension than their population counterparts
Blood pressure data from the 2011-2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were used to compare blood pressure rates between blood donors and the general population. Overall, blood pressure levels were higher among blood donors compared to the general population. However, there was a statistically significant difference between non-Hispanic black donors and their population counterparts. Figure 1 compares blood pressure levels among various blood donor subgroups.
These results highlight the racial disparity in hypertension. In 2011, non-Hispanic blacks had a greater prevalence of hypertension than non-Hispanic whites, Asians, and Hispanics. Non-Hispanic blacks had the highest rate of hypertension in the population. Their rates were lower than non-Hispanic whites and Asians, but higher than non-Hispanic white men and women.
Blood donation reduces blood pressure in hypertension
There is a compelling argument that blood donation reduces blood pressure in hypertension high-blood-pressure patients. The study authors analyzed data from the 2011-2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. They weighted these data to calculate averages for the US population. Compared to the general population, blood donors have lower blood pressure on average. In addition, blood donors are often older, which may help explain their better outcomes. Compared to the general population, blood donors aged 65 and older have a lower prevalence of hypertension than men and women of all ages.
The study’s authors report that despite the potential benefits of blood donation for lowering blood pressure, donors are not immune to complications of the procedure. Potential donors must register and complete a questionnaire to provide information on their health conditions. In addition, patients should undergo standardized BP measurement to determine if they have high blood pressure. Unfortunately, misclassification of BP is common. BP measurements taken in the office can be quite different than those taken at home. These differences are substantial and can impact the treatment of hypertension.
Process of donating blood
To donate blood for hypertension patients, a healthcare provider will place a dressing over your arm and apply pressure using cotton gauze. You can choose between donating whole blood or platelets. You will be required to drink 16 ounces of water beforehand and eat a light meal. You should wear short sleeves and loose clothing that can roll up. You can also choose to wear a sterile gown and headphones. Before donating, you should read and understand the requirements.
The process of donating blood for hypertension highblood pressure patients starts with registering as a potential blood donor. Potential donors must complete an interview and questionnaire to determine their eligibility. Blood pressure was measured using validated sphygmomanometers by trained phlebotomists. Blood pressure should be less than 180 mmHg to be eligible. The blood donation center will use standardized operating procedures to determine if a blood donor is suitable.
Side effects of donating blood
In a study, more than half of the individuals who donated blood for people with hypertension showed a reduction in BP after giving blood. The study found that men and younger blood donors were more likely to have high blood pressure than the general population. Blood donors of African American descent were also less likely to have high blood pressure than non-Hispanic white donors. This could be due to the higher rate of blood donation among African Americans. However, the study found that the percentage of African American blood donors who were hypertensive was distinctly lower than the national average.
In a study of the effects of donating blood for hypertension patients, the results of a physical exam revealed that more than a third of participants had a decreased BP. Interestingly, this decrease was not accompanied by changes in blood counts, hydration, or iron metabolism. Moreover, the study did not find any significant differences in the number of patients who had normal blood pressure, and those who had elevated blood pressure (SBP of 130 mmHg or greater than 90 mmHg).
