A recent study from the Francis Crick Institute suggests that people who donate blood regularly may have genetic changes that could lower the risk of developing certain blood cancers. While the findings are intriguing, researchers caution that more studies are needed to confirm any direct link.
Key Findings from the Study
The study compared blood samples from two groups of healthy men in their 60s:
- One group had donated blood about three times a year for 40 years.
- The other had donated blood only around five times in total.
Researchers found that both groups had similar levels of natural genetic mutations. However, 50% of frequent donors had a specific type of mutation that was present in only 30% of the irregular donors. This mutation appeared to grow differently in lab environments compared to those linked to leukemia, a form of blood cancer.
Dr. Hector Huerga Encabo, one of the study's authors, noted that these mutations were not associated with a high risk of leukemia and that the affected stem cells were effective at producing red blood cells—an encouraging sign.
Possible Explanations
As people age, natural mutations occur in their blood and other body cells, increasing the risk of diseases like cancer. When individuals donate blood, their bodies generate new blood cells to replace the lost ones, potentially influencing genetic diversity in stem cells.
However, scientists emphasize that the study does not prove that blood donation directly reduces the chances of developing blood cancer. One potential confounding factor is the "healthy-donor effect," where those who donate blood are generally healthier to begin with.
Next Steps in Research
The findings, published in the journal Blood, were gathered in collaboration with researchers in Heidelberg and the German Red Cross. The team now aims to expand the study to include a larger, more diverse group, including women.
Dr. Encabo highlighted that even small environmental changes—such as regular blood donation—can influence tissues, stem cells, and overall health.
Blood Donation and Public Health
NHS Blood and Transplant described the research as "interesting" but reiterated that further studies are necessary. Dr. Lise Estcourt, the organization's medical director, emphasized that the most critical factor is that people choose to donate to help others. The agency also noted that blood supplies remain critically low.
Who Can Donate Blood?
In the UK, individuals between 17 and 65 who are in good health can donate blood if they meet eligibility criteria. However, certain conditions, such as a history of cancer, organ transplants, or HIV, may disqualify potential donors. Additionally, people may have to wait to donate if they have recently given birth, received a tattoo, or had a piercing.