Analysis of Association between Blood Lead Levels, Packed Cell Volume and Blood Group in Blood Donors: An Experience from a Tertiary Healthcare Facility in Port Harcourt

Abstract

Background: Packed cell volume and blood group are two parameters which are key in blood transfusion services, and as such, reduced packed cell volume or incompatible blood group will affect the outcome of transfusion. Blood lead may or may not affect the concentration of blood, as has been demonstrated in studies in other parts. However, this association has not been confirmed in the blood of donors in Port Harcourt; likewise, the association between blood lead and blood group is also not known. Aims: To identify if any relationship exists between blood lead levels, packed cell volume and blood group of blood donors in a tertiary hospital in Port Harcourt. Study Design: A descriptive, cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Blood bank of the department of Haematology and Blood Transfusion of the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Port Harcourt, Nigeria, between March 2023 to May 2023. Methodology: We included 246 donors, all were male, aged 18-55 years. Biodata and other relevant information were obtained using a semi-structure questionnaire, after consent to participate in the study was obtained. 5mls of blood was drawn from the antecubital fossa and Packed Cell Volume and blood group was determined. Blood Lead concentration was measured using Solaar thermo elemental atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Statistical analysis was done by SPSS version 21. Ethical approval was obtained. Results: The relationship between donor blood lead levels, and packed cell volume and blood group were both statistically insignificant at P =0.238 and 0.061 respectively. However, the age of donors showed a significant relationship with blood lead levels, P = 0.013. Conclusion: No statistically significant association was found to exist between blood lead levels, packed cell volume or the blood group of blood donors.