“A drop of blood can save a life! Don’t waste it and donate blood.”
Blood donation is a vital part of worldwide healthcare. It relates to blood transfusion as a life-sustaining and life-saving procedure as well as a form of therapeutic phlebotomy as a primary medical intervention. Over one hundred million units of blood are donated each year throughout the world. Donation is the only way of obtaining blood. In the presence of medical and technological advances it is wrongly thought that blood can currently be made but the only source is through blood donation. In developed countries donors are volunteers who donate for their community and whereas in developing countries many people often donate only when their family and friends need it. The prospective donors are being checked that there blood is safe for use. Specialist medical staffs are available at all times during the donation drive and it safe and painless procedure. There is no risk for donors irrespective of the age factor. There is a constant need for regular blood supply because blood can be stored for only a limited time before use. Regular blood donations by a sufficient number of healthy people are needed to ensure that safe blood will be available whenever and wherever it is needed.
Why should you donate blood
Blood is the most precious gift that anyone can give to another person the gift of life. A decision to donate your blood can save a life, or even several if your blood is separated into its components – red cells, platelets and plasma – which can be used individually for patients with specific conditions.
The reason to donate is simple because it helps to save people’s lives. In fact, every two seconds of every day, someone needs blood. Since blood cannot be manufactured outside the body and has a limited shelf life, the supply must constantly be replenished by generous blood donors only.Many patients are waiting for operation in hospital but because of non-availability of blood donors they have to wait unless they find s reliable source they have to keep on waiting. Every two seconds someone in the world needs blood which are required for surgeries, cancer treatment, chronic illnesses, and traumatic injuries etc.
Who should not donate blood
- Pregnant or lactating women, or those who have recently had an abortion.
- Persons who are on steroids, hormonal supplements or certain specified medication.
- Persons with multiple sexual partners or those who are addicted to drugs.
- Persons who have had an attack of infection like jaundice, rubella, typhoid or malaria.
- Persons who have undergone surgery in the previous six months.
- Persons who have consumed alcohol in the 12 hours prior to donation.
- Women should avoid donation during their menstruating period.
Blood donation is a major concern to the society as donated blood is lifesaving for individuals who need it. Blood is scarce. There is a shortage to active blood donors to meet the need of increased blood demand. One of the biggest challenges to blood safety particularly is accessing safe and adequate quantities of blood and blood products. Safe supply of blood and blood components is essential, to enable a wide range of critical care procedures to be carried out in hospitals. Interactive awareness on blood donation should be organized to create awareness and opportunities for blood donation.
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