Development and improvement of Chinese Haemovigilance Network from 2018 to 2023

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to investigate the evolving data trends of the Chinese Haemovigilance Network (CHN) and provide insights into its future development. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Data were collected from the CHN covering the period of 2018-2023. The data were subdivided into three phases and analysed from several aspects. We also compared the percentage distribution of adverse transfusion reactions (ATRs) between the CHN and other national haemovigilance reports. RESULTS: Overall, the number of hospitals participating in reporting ATRs has increased, from a total of 188 in 2018-2019 to 206 in 2020-2021 and 222 in 2022-2023. The CHN received 6410 ATRs cases: 1915 in 2018-2019, 2265 in 2020-2021 and 2230 in 2022-2023. The reports for all three phases covered 11 types of ATRs that involved transfusion of nine blood components. The highest percentage of ATRs was caused by apheresis platelets (591/1915 in 2018-2019, 756/2265 in 2020-2021 and 760/2230 in 2022-2023). In terms of ATR severity, no severity was overwhelming (91.70% in 2018-2019, 95.74% in 2020-2021 and 93.34% in 2022-2023). The CHN report showed a higher proportion of allergic reactions compared to serious hazards of transfusion. Similarly, differences in the distribution of ATRs were also observed between the CHN system and both the Australian and transfusion and transplantation reactions in patients haemovigilance systems. CONCLUSION: Over the past 6 years, the CHN has established a relatively advanced haemovigilance system. Comparison of the CHN and other national haemovigilance reports revealed differences in the classification and percentage distribution of ATRs, underscoring the need for standardized reporting to enhance global transfusion safety.