However, this is now proven not to be the case.
Today, arthritis itself no longer disqualifies you as a blood donor.
Blood Donation Safety
Donating blood is perfectly safe both for you and those who receive your blood.
Verywell / Michela Buttignol
A typical donation is equivalent to a pint of blood.
However, the medications you take may make you ineligible to donate.
The American Red Cross does not list methotrexate on its list of problematic medications.
Anemia
Anemiais a condition in which your body does not produce enough healthy red blood cells.
People with arthritis and other autoimmune diseases are more prone toanemia of chronic diseaseandiron-deficiency anemia.
Iron helps your body make new red blood cells to replace those lost, such as through blood donation.
Other Disqualifying Factors
Therequirements for blood donationcan vary by individual blood banks.
Donors must also weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health.
The new guidelines recommend a three-month deferment from the last sexual contact.
It is always a good idea to call ahead to confirm your eligibility.
Ready to Donate or Have Questions?
Certain medications may prevent you from being able to donate blood.
verify you tell the donation center about any medication you may be taking before you donate.
2018;77(10):1536-1537. doi:10.1136/annrheumdis-2017-212844
American Red Cross.Frequently asked questions.
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.Medical conditions affecting donation.
Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center.Rheumatoid arthritis signs and symptoms.
American Red Cross Blood Services.Eligibility criteria: alphabetical.
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.Anemia of inflammation or chronic disease.
American Red Cross.What donors should know about iron and blood donation.
American Red Cross.Requirements by donation bang out.
