The Benefits of Donating Blood
Donating blood is a simple and safe way to make a difference in the lives of others. Whether you donate whole blood, plasma, or platelets, you can help save someone who needs a transfusion. But did you know that donating blood can also benefit your own health and well-being? Here are some of the advantages of giving blood regularly.
Free Health Checkup
Before you donate blood, you will undergo a mini-physical examination and a blood test. These will check your:
- blood pressure
- body temperature
- heart rate
- hemoglobin levels
The blood test will also screen for several diseases, such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, HIV, West Nile virus, syphilis, and Trypanosoma cruzi. If any of these tests reveal a problem, you will not be able to donate blood, but you will be notified and advised to seek medical attention. This can help you detect and treat any health issues early.
Lower Iron Levels
Iron is an essential mineral that helps your red blood cells carry oxygen throughout your body. However, too much iron can be harmful and increase the risk of certain diseases, such as heart attack, stroke, liver damage, and diabetes. ¹
Donating blood can help lower your iron levels and prevent iron overload. A 2013 study found that blood donors had a 88% lower risk of heart attack than non-donors. ² Another study found that blood donors had lower blood glucose and cholesterol levels than non-donors. ³
Improved Mental Health
Donating blood can also boost your mood and emotional well-being. According to the Mental Health Foundation, helping others can:
- reduce stress
- improve your self-esteem
- enhance your sense of purpose
- foster social connections
- alleviate negative feelings
- increase happiness and satisfaction ⁴
Donating blood can also give you a sense of accomplishment and pride. You can feel good knowing that you have made a positive impact on someone else’s life.
How to Donate Blood
If you are interested in donating blood, you can find a blood drive or a donation center near you by visiting the Philippine Red Cross website. You will need to meet some eligibility criteria, such as being at least 17 years old, weighing at least 110 pounds, and being in good health. You will also need to bring a valid ID and a list of any medications you are taking.
The donation process usually takes about an hour, but the actual blood collection only takes about 10 minutes. You will be asked to fill out a health history questionnaire, have a mini-physical exam, and then lie down on a comfortable bed or chair. A trained staff member will insert a sterile needle into your arm and collect your blood in a bag. You may feel a slight pinch when the needle goes in, but it should not be painful.
After the donation, you will be given some snacks and drinks to replenish your fluids and energy. You will also be advised to drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, and limit physical activity for the rest of the day. You may experience some mild side effects, such as bruising, dizziness, or nausea, but these should go away quickly. If you have any concerns, you can contact the blood donation center for assistance.
You can donate whole blood every 56 days, plasma every 28 days, and platelets every 7 days. However, you should not donate more than 24 times a year. Donating blood regularly can help maintain a stable blood supply and ensure that there is enough blood for those who need it.
Conclusion
Donating blood is a generous and rewarding act that can benefit both the recipient and the donor. By giving blood, you can help save lives, improve your health, and enhance your mental well-being. You can also join a community of blood donors who share a common goal of helping others. If you are eligible and willing, consider donating blood today and make a difference in the world.
Source:
(1) Benefits of Donating Blood: Side Effects, Advantages, and More – Healthline
(2) Donating blood: Advantages, disadvantages, and procedure.
(3) Why Blood Donation is So Critical | Giving = Living – HHS.gov.
(4) 4 Health Benefits of Blood Donation.
