Muscat – The Department of Blood Banks Services (DBBS) has renewed its call for transparency and honesty in completing blood donation questionnaires, stressing that accurate disclosures are essential for the safety of both donors and recipients.

‘Disclosing your health status and answering the blood donation questionnaire with honesty and transparency are crucial for ensuring both your safety and the safety of blood recipients,’ the department said in a statement.

Under DBBS guidelines, individuals with certain medical conditions and  history may be permanently or temporarily barred from donating blood. Permanent deferrals apply to people with blood-borne infections such as HIV/AIDS, hepatitis B or C and syphilis. Those diagnosed with chronic illnesses including cancer, heart disease, epilepsy, insulin-dependent diabetes and blood disorders such as anaemia and thalassemia are also permanently ineligible.

DBBS further stated that individuals with a history of malaria – regardless of when the infection occurred – cannot donate blood.

Temporary deferrals apply to those recovering from recent surgeries, dental procedures or medical treatments that pose short-term risks, individuals who have had blood transfusion in the past year and those who donated whole blood in the last three months.

A four-month deferral applies to anyone who has had tattoos, skin or ear piercings, acupuncture or traditional treatments such as wasam, cupping (Hijama) and bloodletting. Women who have given birth or undergone abortion are not allowed to donate for one year.

DBBS also advises prospective donors to disclose recent medication, international travel, vaccination, ongoing health issues and chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes and allergies. Any surgery undergone in the last six months must also be declared.

The department urged individuals to adhere to these guidelines and consult medical staff at donation centres if uncertain about their eligibility.