Blood is life, the irreplaceable locomotive engine of our life; hence, a single drop of blood can make a huge difference – it could save or mar life. Blood is a necessary, priceless gift to someone's life. Therefore, it is essential to give or take blood.

Blood donation is a voluntary process wherein a healthy individual donates blood to save lives and improve the health of those in need. Blood is a vital resource for medical treatments and emergency interventions. To honour and promote blood donation, the World Health Organization (WHO) and its partners celebrate World Blood Donor Day every year on June 14th. This day recognises the contribution of voluntary unpaid blood donors to the global health systems. It is, therefore, not strange that the UNO and other medical authorities encourage one to become a blood donor.

Blood Donor

A blood donor is an individual who voluntarily gives their blood for medical purposes. Donors can be categorised into three types:

1. Voluntary non-remunerated donors: Individuals who donate blood voluntarily without monetary compensation.

2. Family/replacement donors: Individuals who donate blood to replace the blood used by a family member or friend. Think of a medical emergency or during sickness when a blood donation from a family member or friend is required.

3. Paid donors receive payment in return for their blood donation. Although health organisations generally discourage this practice, it is not forbidden. Some become paid donors out of their poor financial situation; by so doing, they still contribute to saving lives. Hence, one needs to commend their deed.

Types of Blood Donations

Blood donations can be classified into several types based on what is being donated:

Whole blood donation: The most common type, where about 450-500 ml of blood is collected.

Platelet donation: Platelets are collected using apheresis, which separates platelets from the blood and returns the rest to the donor.

Plasma donation: Plasma, the liquid part of the blood, is collected, and the other components are returned to the donor.

Double red cell donation: Two units of red blood cells are collected while other components are returned to the donor.

Why Does the UNO Celebrate World Blood Donor Day?

As we celebrate World Blood Donor Day, observed on June 14th, it is necessary to highlight the reasons behind the celebration. Originally, the celebration marks the birth anniversary of Karl Landsteiner, the Nobel Prize laureate who discovered the ABO blood group system. The United Nations, through the World Health Organization, celebrates this day to:

1. Raise awareness: Blood is irreplaceable in humans; therefore, the UNO creates a campaign highlighting the need for safe blood and blood products and the crucial role of voluntary, unpaid blood donors in national health systems.

2. Thank donors: Through the celebration, we acknowledge the selflessness of blood donors and their priceless contribution towards saving lives. It is, therefore, important to show appreciation for the noble acts of individual blood donors.

3. Promote donor health: Blood donation is just one part of ensuring adequate blood availability and supply. Securing blood donation safely and ensuring that donors are treated with respect and care are necessary to promote blood donor and user health.

4. Encourage new donors: We motivate more people to donate blood regularly to maintain an adequate supply, without which the health of individuals may be put at risk.

Importance of Blood Donation

Saving Lives

Blood donation is critical in many medical scenarios:

Emergencies: Victims of accidents, natural disasters, and armed conflicts often need blood transfusions. Therefore, having blood available in the case of an emergency saves lives.

Surgeries: Patients undergoing significant surgeries may require blood. Hence, we must consider the need for adequate blood availability.

Cancer treatment: Chemotherapy and radiation therapy can lower blood counts, necessitating transfusions, which cannot take place without enough blood in place.

Chronic conditions: Individuals with conditions such as sickle cell anaemia and thalassemia often require regular blood transfusions.

Health Benefits for Donors

Donating blood comes with benefits for both the donor and the receiver. Often, we believe that the blood receiver is the only beneficiary of blood donation. Far from that. Blood donation also offers many health benefits to donors, such as:

Health monitoring: Donors receive a mini-physical, which can help in early detection of potential health issues.

Reduced risk of hemochromatosis: Regular blood donation can reduce iron overload in the body.

Lowered cancer risk: Some studies suggest that regular blood donation can reduce the risk of certain cancers linked to iron levels. In addition to the above personal benefits to the donor, blood donation comes with other social benefits.

Societal Impact

Regular blood donations contribute significantly to public health:

Blood banks and hospitals: Adequate blood supply ensures that medical facilities can provide timely care. Adequate availability is essential in the case of medical emergencies. Think of accidents, unexpected natural tragedies, etc.

Community resilience: Communities with robust blood donation practices are better prepared to handle emergencies.

Challenges and Misconceptions

Despite the benefits, there are several challenges and misconceptions associated with blood donation:

Fear and anxiety: Many potential donors are afraid of needles or the sight of blood.

Lack of awareness: Misunderstandings about eligibility and the donation process can deter potential donors.

Cultural and religious beliefs: Some individuals may have cultural or religious reservations about donating blood.

Addressing Misconceptions:

Addressing blood donation misconceptions is a necessary step towards steady blood availability. It is essential to emphasise that blood donation is a safe procedure with sterile equipment.

Eligibility criteria: Medically speaking, most healthy adults can donate blood, and it is essential to ensure the safety of both donor and recipient.

Post-donation recovery: Donating blood does not mean sucking away all the blood in one's body. The body replenishes the donated blood volume within a few days, and most donors can resume normal activities shortly after donation.

World Blood Donor Day serves as a reminder of the vital role blood donors play in saving lives and enhancing health. Donating blood is a profound way to contribute to society and help those in critical need. We can ensure a reliable blood supply for emergencies and ongoing medical needs by raising awareness, addressing misconceptions, and encouraging regular donations. Blood donation saves lives and fosters a sense of community and mutual support, reflecting the best of human compassion and generosity. Blood donation is not only substantial, but it is also a necessity for the survival of society.

Watch Kata Kata Video on Blood Donation: https://youtu.be/Kg5wXUl_8bY?si=1AgzzuCS9B0NpcJ5