Hereditary hemochromatosis is a relatively common genetic condition where the body stores more iron than normal. It occurs most commonly in people of northern European descent, affecting 1 in 300  people of this demographic. Iron is a central component of our blood – we can’t live without it. However, we only need a few grams for our blood to function normally. Excessive levels of iron can be toxic.


What is hereditary hemochromatosis?

Hemochromatosis is an inherited disorder of iron metabolism, where excess iron is absorbed from the diet. Eventually, the excess iron accumulates in tissues, such as the liver, pancreas, and heart. In advanced cases, damage to these organs occurs, with cirrhosis, diabetes and cardiac failure. Hemochromatosis is fairly common in people of northern European descent (approximately 1 in 300 people).

What is the treatment for hemochromatosis?

Since iron is an important component of hemoglobin, found in red blood cells, phlebotomy at regular intervals is the usual treatment for hemochromatosis. Depending on the amount of excess iron, phlebotomies may be done frequently initially (such as every week) and spaced out later on to keep iron levels in the normal range.

Can individuals with hemochromatosis donate blood?

People with hemochromatosis can donate blood, providing they meet all other Canadian Blood Services donor eligibility criteria. Individuals with late complications from hemochromatosis such as liver cirrhosis or heart failure are not eligible to donate.

How frequently can people with hemochromatosis donate?

Individuals with hemochromatosis can donate blood every 56 days for males and every 84 days for females, which is the usual interval for whole blood donation at Canadian Blood Services.

Individuals may have phlebotomies in between donations, providing there is at least one week between an outpatient phlebotomy and their next Canadian Blood Services donation. For example, if an individual has a phlebotomy this Monday in their outpatient clinic, they can donate blood at Canadian Blood Services the following Monday.