World blood donor day 2024: Importance and benefits of donating blood

Each year on 14 June, World Blood Donor Day is observed to promote the significance of blood donation and to acknowledge the valuable role of voluntary unpaid blood donors in saving lives. Donating blood saves lives as this vital fluid is essential in providing assistance to people undergoing surgeries, accident victims, people battling illnesses, and many other situations.

Here are 5 reasons why blood donation is so important and how you can benefit from it as a donor.

Importance of donating blood

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1) India is facing a blood shortage

According to PIB, there is a need for blood transfusion every 2 seconds in India. On average, 14.6 million units of blood are required annually, resulting in a constant shortage of 1 million units.

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2) Blood cannot be stored indefinitely

Blood donations are always needed because blood cannot be stored for an indefinite period of time. It is important to donate blood regularly to guarantee a continuous supply for those who require it.

3) Blood has no substitutes

Blood has no substitute and regular voluntary blood donors are the sole source of life-saving blood for those who require it.

4) One donation saves multiple lives

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Donating a single unit of blood has the potential to save the lives of three people. Once donated, the blood is divided into three parts – red blood cells, platelets, and plasma using a centrifugation process. These components can then be given to three different patients.

5) Helps in medical research

Although most of the donated blood is utilised for medical purposes, your donation and the by-products from the donation procedure may also contribute to saving lives in indirect ways, like advancing the understanding of medical conditions.

Benefits of donating blood

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1) Free health check-up

Donors are required to undergo a health screening before giving blood, which can help uncover potential health issues. This screening can effectively identify any existing medical conditions or the presence of risk factors for specific diseases.

2) Healthier heart

Regular blood donation can help reduce the risk of heart attack by lowering iron stores in the body, as it is believed that high levels of body iron increase this risk.

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3) Prevents hemochromatosis

Donating blood can help decrease the body's surplus iron levels, as having too much iron can lead to hemochromatosis.

4) Healthier liver

Donating blood can support the health of your liver by reducing iron overload, which can impact liver function.

5) Improves mental well-being

Assisting someone in their time of need can bring a sense of satisfaction and positively impact your mental health by reducing stress and enhancing your emotional well-being.

While donating blood has several health advantages, saving lives is undoubtedly the main benefit of the procedure. So make a difference in someone's life and go donate your blood!

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