Only 1 percent of Indians donate blood.
Blood donation is a noble act that can save many lives, while also contributing to the welfare of individuals.
World Blood Donor Day was recently observed on June 14 across the world. The purpose of this day is to create awareness about the necessity of donating blood, its importance and benefits. Established by the World Health Organisation (WHO), the day honours donors for their selfless contributions and raises awareness about the need for sustainable blood donation. Blood donation is a noble act that can save many lives, while also contributing to the welfare of individuals. It may seem like a simple thing, but it is such a powerful act that it can save many lives and give them a second chance at life. It emphasises the importance of blood in critical treatments, surgeries and emergency care.
Every donation saves many lives and blood donation is essential for survival and general well-being. As only 1 percent of Indians donate blood, there is a twofold discrepancy between supply and demand. In 2017, India needed 60 million units of blood, but only half of that amount was available, according to WHO. In times of need, many Indian blood banks struggle to supply enough blood.
Frequent blood donation has many positive effects on health. It reduces the risk of heart disease by lowering blood iron levels and maintains heart health. Routine donors undergo frequent screenings for health conditions to help detect potential problems early. Frequent donation promotes the growth of new blood cells and improves circulation and general health.
To donate blood, a person must be in good health and free from blood-related or chronic diseases. Doctors recommend that even a healthy person should undergo blood tests at least once a year. Regular check-ups with blood donation help guard against health problems that develop over time and can help prevent chronic diseases and prompt treatment.
Every two seconds, someone in India has to donate blood; every day, nearly 40,000 donors are needed. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare recorded 10.9 million blood donations in 2016, which was short of the required 12 million units. An accident victim will need more than 100 units of blood. More than a million people are diagnosed with cancer each year and require blood transfusions during chemotherapy treatment.
Donating blood is safe, so don’t hesitate. Blood donation is a safe process where sterilised needles are used for each donor and the needles are discarded after use. If you donate blood continuously every 90 days from age 18 to 60, you can donate 192 units of blood, thereby saving 500 lives.