Abstract: For the first time in Finland, the Finnish Red Cross Blood Service Biobank returned clinically confirmed genetic risk information to blood donors, focusing on hereditary haemochromatosis. By screening genomic data from over 43,000 biobank participants, researchers identified individuals with an elevated genetic risk and informed them with appropriate medical guidance. Most recipients were previously unaware of their predisposition, yet responded positively to receiving this information. The findings highlight how biobanks can move beyond research alone and directly support early health awareness when done carefully and ethically.
The study also explored how donors perceived receiving genetic risk information. Participants strongly supported the use of biobank genomic data to promote health and expressed willingness to receive similar updates in the future. Importantly, over one-third of those informed were later diagnosed following clinical follow-up, suggesting real preventive value. The project emphasizes the importance of transparency, consent, and counseling when returning results, and raises broader questions about how biobanks may responsibly contribute to personalized healthcare while maintaining public trust.
Read the full study here: https://www.veripalvelu.fi/en/blood-donors-received-information-for-the-first-time-about-their-hereditary-disease-risk-from-the-blood-service-biobank/