Comparative Analysis of Serum Ferritin and Packed Cell Volume in Blood Donors and Non-Donors in Bayelsa State

Background and Objective: Serum ferritin and Packed Cell Volume (PCV) are critical indicators of iron stores and overall blood health, often analyzed to assess the impact of blood donation on iron metabolism and anemia risk. This study investigates the demographic characteristics and hematological parameters of blood donors and non-donors at Niger Delta University Teaching Hospital, Okolobiri, Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: The sixty male subjects (30 donors and 30 non-donors) from the Okolobiri Region, Bayelsa State, were recruited following informed consent. Serum ferritin was analyzed using ELISA and packed cell volume was assessed via microhematocrit centrifugation. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 22, with paired t-tests determining significance at p<0.05. Results: The mean age of blood donors was 24.8±4.13 years, while non-donors had a mean age of 22.3±2.82 years. Hematological analysis revealed significant differences in packed cell volume and serum ferritin levels between the 2 groups. Non-donors exhibited higher packed cell volume (42.13±3.58) compared to donors (38.07±1.67; p<0.05). Similarly, serum ferritin levels were significantly elevated in non-donors (99.73±13.62) compared to blood donors (74.93±9.38: p<0.001). Conclusion: These findings indicate that regular blood donation impacts iron stores and red blood cell indices, potentially increasing the risk of subclinical anemia or iron depletion among frequent donors. This study underscores the need for proactive donor management strategies to ensure donor health and sustainability of blood donation programs. Recommendations include routine hematological monitoring, iron supplementation for frequent donors and educational campaigns to promote dietary practices that replenish iron stores post-donation. Additionally, addressing gender disparities in blood donation through awareness programs could enhance donor diversity.