Hematology

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Why Blood Donation?

Blood donation is a noble humanitarian act, because it contributes in saving the lives of thousands patients who are in bad need for blood transfusion. The fact is that one out of every ten patients entering a hospital needs blood transfusion, especially those suffering from malignant or incurable diseases, as well as those who have lost large amount of blood as a result of serious accidents or during major surgical operations, in addition to blood components used in the treatment of many serious diseases.

What are the requirements to be met by blood donor?

Any person who is not complaining from any disease, should be at least 17 years old age (maximum age being: 65 years), weighing not less than 50 km, with hemoglobin level higher than 12.5 grams, blood pressure range between 110/60 – 140/90, regular heart beats between 50-10 per minute and temperature should not exceed 37.5 ° C.

What is the minimum period allowed between every two donations?

The minimum period allowed is eight weeks, but not more than five times a year.

Is blood donation risky?
All donation procedures are taken by well-trained crew under the supervision of a specialized physician, and because blood bags and needles are disposable and used for each donor, it is not possible for a donor to be vulnerable to a blood-borne infection in any way.

What is the amount of donated blood?

On average, the human body contains five liters of blood and the amount of donated blood is estimated at 450 milliliters which represent only 8% of the average volume in an adult, with no effect on the normal activity of the donor, absolutely.

What are the WHO criteria for honorary blood donation?

Specific procedures for selecting donors, including pre-donation consultation and medical examination every time of donation.
Examining all blood units to ensure that they are free from blood-borne viruses.
Optimal use of blood.

How does the body replace donated blood?

The body replaces the volume of donated blood within few hours and blood cells are replaced in few days, without a need for specific diet.

What are the benefits of donating blood?

Checking on the donor's health, as every blood donor has to undergo physical medical examination and a precise blood test in a laboratory.
Experiments proved that blood donation reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Stimulating the bone marrow to produce new red blood cells with better capacity.
Helping others, since blood donation is reckoned as a type of social solidarity spreading spirit of love amongst people.
The reward, Allah says in the Holy Qur'an “And if anyone saved a life, it would be as if he saved the life of all mankind”. (Surat Al-Ma’ida 32).

To watch the video on the World Blood Donor Day, click here.