Blood Donation: Facts and Myths

Reading these facts about Blood Donation (BD) will make you realize how important it is to donate blood. However, this is not a complete list.

THE FACTS:

1. Five percent or less eligible donors donate blood but the number of transfusion increase about 10 percent every year.

2. One whole blood donation helps upto 3 people.

3. Whole blood donation takes upto 45 to 60 minutes.

4. On an average, hip replacement requires one pint of blood; a cardiac bypass or a cardiac transplant two pints of blood and a liver transplant 10 units.

5. Blood cannot be manufactured; it can only be given as gift.

6. It is statistically estimated that 25 percent of us may require blood at least once in our lifetime.

THE MYTHS:

1. It is the greatest myth that BD makes the donor weak.

2. Rest is required for a day after BD.

3. BD will lower immunity.

4. Donating blood frequently will fluctuate the blood pressure and blood sugar levels.

Believe in the facts alone, go ahead, and donate blood without any fear.

Dr. Ajay Sati.