Many people with high blood pressure or diabetes can donate, but it depends on:

·       How well‑controlled the condition is.

·       Which medications you take.

·       Whether you have complications affecting your heart, kidneys, eyes, etc.

For high blood pressure (hypertension):

·       If your blood pressure is reasonably controlled and your doctor is happy with your condition, you may be allowed to donate as long as your blood pressure on the day of donation is within acceptable limits.

·       If your pressure is very high or very low at screening, or you have serious heart disease, you may be deferred.

For diabetes:

·       If your blood sugar is stable and under control, and you have no serious complications like active foot ulcers or severe kidney disease, you may be eligible.

·       Some centers have special rules for people on insulin; the doctor at the blood bank will decide.

Always tell the staff exactly what medicines you are taking and why. They will assess your safety first.