Sunday, March 23, 2008

Research News: Study: Age of blood may affect patients

The News:
Study: Age of blood may affect patients
By MIKE STOBBE AP Medical Writer
Article Last Updated: 03/20/2008 06:03:15 PM MDT
ATLANTA—Heart surgery patients were more likely to die or suffer problems if they received transfusions of blood that is more than two weeks old rather than fresher blood, according to a new study that adds to the debate about the shelf life of blood. Although not the final word, the study underscores concerns that blood deteriorates with age and that rules allowing blood to be stored for six weeks may pose a safety risk, at least for certain patients.

The Research:
Read the research behind this story in the New England Journal of Medicine.
Read an editorial about this story in the New England Journal of Medicine.

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