Blood Program Changes Policy

Week of March 31, 2008

The Armed Services Blood Program (ASBP) implemented a new policy regarding tattoos that may allow more donors to give blood to the military. This new policy allows donors with new tattoos to give blood again after just one week, instead of the previous one-year deferral period, provided the tattoo was acquired in a state-regulated tattoo parlor. A total of 20 states regulate tattoo facilities and donors are encouraged to contact their nearest military blood donor center for more details. To schedule a donation appointment or to contact your local blood donor center regarding the tattoo policy, visit the Armed Services Blood Program (ASBP) website.

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