Blood donor suitability and allogeneic whole blood donation.

Blood donor suitability criteria are designed to protect both the blood donor and blood recipient from harm. The risks for allogeneic (community) whole blood donors who give blood and for blood recipients who receive it are described. Blood donor suitability criteria are based on science, informed medical opinion, and regulatory rules. The criteria for many common conditions are described. Blood donor suitability criteria influence donor demographics and lead to specific deferral patterns. Age, gender, and hemoglobin deferral patterns are described. Finally, the negative effect of short-term temporary deferrals on future blood donations was reviewed.