World Blood Donor Day is observed annually on 14^th June, to raise awareness about the importance of donating blood, and to recognise the valuable contribution of blood donors worldwide. The significance of World Blood Donor Day is to promote awareness and encourage voluntary blood donation to emphasize the critical role blood donors play in saving the lives of others.

What is blood made of?

Most of human blood is made up of fluid called plasma. A number of substances and cells float or are suspended within the plasma. These include water, proteins, minerals and salts. The cells are red blood cells, responsible for carrying oxygen to the body; platelets, which the body uses to stop bleeding; and white blood cells, which fight infections.

Who can donate blood?

Anyone between the ages of 16 and 75.

Anyone who weighs at least 50 kg.

A healthy individual who does not have anemia; is not on certain types of medication; and has a normal blood pressure.

Anyone whose social behavior does not place them at an increased risk of transmitting HIV or hepatitis.

Pregnant women and people who have had recent surgery are not allowed to donate.

What are the different types of donation?

• Whole blood – one can donate a complete unit of blood, which is no more than 480 mL; this blood is then separated into 3 separate components and can be given to 3 different people.
• Platelets – these are components of blood useful for clotting; once they have been separated and removed the rest of the blood components are returned to the donor.
• Plasma – this is the fluid in which all the cells in blood float, and it also consists of salts and proteins. Plasma can be donated more frequently, and the process is similar to platelet donation and takes about 90 minutes.
• Autologous – this is done when you donate blood for your own personal use before a planned surgical procedure. The blood is then stored until the relevant time.

Why is donating blood important?

Donating saves peoples lives when they have lost a lot of blood over a short or long period of time, or when they are not able to produce enough blood cells. Examples include women who bleed excessively during pregnancy or delivery; victims of trauma or motor vehicle accidents; patients undergoing surgery; and those with anemia or other illnesses like cancer. It is important to note that blood donors do not get paid because this has to be an act of selflessness.

What blood groups are needed most?

There are four types of blood groups: A, B, AB and O. These are further categorized as Rh+ or Rh-, based on the Rhesus classification. People with blood group O- can donate blood to everyone, and are called universal donors. Those with blood group AB+ can receive blood from everyone, and are thus called universal recipients. Group O is in greater demand, and these donors are asked to donate regularly because their blood is especially useful during emergencies, when there is no time to check for compatibility.

Is donated blood tested, and can I get HIV from it?

While nothing is ever completely risk free, the chance of acquiring any disease from a blood transfusion, including HIV, is so low that one can consider it to be negligible. Donated blood is rigorously tested for Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Syphilis, and HIV 1&2. Every unit of blood collected goes through the same stringent testing. So, it does not matter if it’s your first time, or if you are a regular donor, your blood still gets tested every time you donate.

Facts about blood donation

• An average human being has about 5 L of blood at any one time.
• Donated blood is replaced within 24 hours if one takes in enough fluids, although red blood cells take much longer to replace.
• Only 480 mL can be donated at a time, and one can only donate blood every 56 days so the body can have enough time to recover.

With each blood donation, donors contribute to saving lives during emergencies, surgeries, childbirth, and various medical treatments. Their act of kindness impacts patients regardless of age, gender, or background. World Blood Donor Day serves as a reminder that anyone can give the gift of life through blood donation.

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