Regular Blood Donation May Influence Genetic Changes Linked to Lower Cancer Risk

A study by the Francis Crick Institute suggests that regular blood donors may develop genetic changes in their blood that could reduce cancer risk. Researchers compared two groups of healthy male donors in their 60s: one group donated blood frequently for 40 years, while the other donated only a few times.

Both groups had similar levels of natural genetic mutations, but 50% of frequent donors showed a specific mutation type, compared to 30% of irregular donors. This mutation, not linked to high leukemia risk, appeared beneficial in lab tests. Scientists believe frequent blood donation may influence stem cell diversity, shaping how blood regenerates.

However, researchers caution that the "healthy-donor effect" may play a role, as those eligible to donate are often in better health. More research is planned, including studies on women. NHS Blood and Transplant welcomes the study but emphasizes the need for more donors as stocks remain critically low.

12-03-2025

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