Blood Donation: Who Can, Who Can’t & Benefits

Dr.Hema Goyal, 3 mins read

Blood donation is counted among one of the biggest noble acts in humankind. This one act not only saves lives but also improves the health of donors. But there are many things one should know before blood donation. This guide will help you out.

What Is a Blood Transfusion?

A blood transfusion is a process in which donated blood or blood components are given to the injured or needy. This is done through an intravenous line (IV line). A blood transfusion helps improve the level of blood or other blood components to near normal.

When Does Someone Need a Blood Transfusion?

A blood transfusion is a life-saving process. It is required when someone has lost a significant amount of blood during surgery or injury. Patients with certain medical conditions also require blood transfusions. These conditions include anaemia, certain cancers, haemophilia, sickle cell disease, etc.  

What Components of Blood Can be Donated?

Besides the whole blood, several components of blood are also donated. These include:

• Red blood cells: Carry oxygen throughout the body.
• Platelets: Help blood clot.
• Plasma: Carries nutrients.
• Cryoprecipitate: A part of plasma containing several clotting factors.

How Much Blood Can You Donate?

You can donate 450 ml of blood (if you are 55 kg and above) & 350 ml (if your weight is between 45 kg and 55 kg). 

A healthy male can donate blood every 3 months, and a healthy female can donate blood every 4 months.

Who Can Donate Blood?

There are several criteria to decide whether someone is eligible for blood donation: 

• Age (18 to 65 years)
• Weight (Above 45 kg or healthy BMI)
• Optimum health with a haemoglobin level of 12.5gm/dl or more

Who Can’t Donate Blood? 

• Below or above the set age criteria
• Underweight
• Low haemoglobin level
• Having a cold, flu, cold sores, a stomach bug, a sore throat, or any infection 
• Having any chronic condition 
• Recently had a tattoo or body piercing 
• Have ever injected a recreational drug
• Breastfeeding or pregnant women

It’s advisable to visit a nearby doctor to determine whether you can donate blood. 

Benefits of Blood Donation

Everyone has their reasons for donating blood. But besides helping others, donating blood also helps you in many ways. Here are some health benefits of donating blood:

Mini Health Exam

Before blood donation, a blood centre staff member will do some basic examinations to check whether you are a suitable candidate for donation. These examinations might also help to check your vitals, such as blood pressure, body temperature,  pulse rate, body weight, height, blood group and haemoglobin. 

Reduces the Risk of Cancer

Sounds absurd, right? But it’s the truth. Too much iron in the blood can be bad for health. Iron is linked with cancer-causing free radicals, unstable atoms that can damage cells. Thus, donating blood can bring the iron level to the normal range. 

Gives you a sense of pride, motivation, and accomplishment

Blood donation is undoubtedly a noble act that, on one hand, saves lives and, on the other hand, gives a good feeling of helping others in need. If you have any questions or doubts relating to blood donation or would like to donate blood, you can visit Aakash Healthcare.