Frequency of vasovagal reactions in whole blood donation and contributing factors

The aim of the present study was to identify the frequency of vasovagal reactions (VVRs) and the factors influencing their occurrence. For this purpose, a total of 742 donors who applied for whole blood donation at a blood center were included in the study. The frequency of VVR and its association with donor-related factors were assessed. The results revealed that the median age of the donors was 36 years, with 9.8% female and 90.2% male donors. VVRs were observed in 4.9% of the donors. The median age of the donors who experienced VVRs was found to be lower than that of those who did not experience VVRs. The incidence of VVRs was higher in first-time donors. The median blood donation rate for donors who experienced VVRs was 2, compared to 4 for those who did not, and the difference was statistically significant. On the whole, the present study demonstrates that the frequency of VVRs is higher in first-time blood donors, and that the blood donation rate is lower for those who experience VVRs. Preventive measures for VVRs, particularly for first-time donors, could increase the rate of blood donation.