Many potential donors have common long‑term conditions. Being diagnosed with something like high blood pressure does not automatically mean you can never donate, but it does require careful assessment.

Important: Final decisions must always be made by the medical team at the donation site, who follow national guidelines.

High blood pressure (hypertension)

You may still be able to donate if:

·       Your blood pressure is well controlled with lifestyle and/or medication.

·       On the day of donation, your reading is within the acceptable range used by the center.

·       You have no serious complications from hypertension (like advanced heart disease or kidney failure).

You are likely to be deferred if:

·       Your blood pressure is very high or very low at screening.

·       You have chest pain, shortness of breath, or other serious heart problems.

·       Your doctor has advised you to avoid blood donation.

Diabetes

Many people with diabetes can donate if:

·       Their blood sugar is reasonably controlled.

·       They are not experiencing severe complications like active foot ulcers, serious kidney disease or recent hospitalizations.

·       They are not using certain medications that are restricted by local guidelines.

However, some diabetic patients—especially those with multiple complications—may be deferred for their own safety.

Asthma and allergies

·       People with mild, well‑controlled asthma who are not wheezing and feel well on the day of donation can often donate.

·       Severe asthma, recent attacks, or active breathing difficulty usually leads to temporary deferral until stable.

·       Common allergies (like dust or seasonal allergies) are often not a problem unless symptoms are severe on the day.

Other common conditions

·       Thyroid disease (hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism) that is stable and well‑controlled may be compatible with donation; unstable or untreated cases are usually deferred.

·       Mild depression or anxiety under control with treatment does not by itself prevent donation, as long as the person can give informed consent and feels well.

·       Mild anemia or low hemoglobin will lead to temporary deferral until levels are corrected, regardless of the cause.

Safe approach for RedLife users

The Info Desk should emphasize:

·       “Having a medical condition does not automatically disqualify you.”

·       “Bring your medication list and doctor’s advice to the blood bank.”

·       “Let the medical staff decide; never hide information just to be accepted.”

This encourages honest disclosure and safe, case‑by‑case decisions.