Can I donate if I am anemic?

Potential donors can only be accepted for blood donation if they have a hemoglobin or hematocrit that meets a Federally established level; we are unable to accept donors who have a hemoglobin or hematocrit below this Federally established cutoff. Before each donation, your Hematocrit (iron) level will be checked. As longs as levels are within acceptable range on the day of donation, you are most likely eligible to donate blood; however, individual assessment by a screener may be required.
We are not able to draw a unit of blood from someone who is truly anemic. Regular blood donation can deplete iron stores unless an iron rich diet is consumed on a regular basis. In some cases supplemental iron may be taken. If a donor is being treated for anemia, a discussion should take place between the donor and his her physician to determine if blood donation is in his/her best interest.