Donating blood doesn’t just benefit recipients. There are health benefits for donors, too, on top of the benefits that come from helping others. Donating blood has benefits for your emotional and physical health, but that’s only for people who meet the requirement to donate blood.
Who is eligible to donate blood?
Most individuals in good health are eligible to donate blood. However, there are a few basic requirements that must be met to qualify as a donor. Below are some key eligibility guidelines:
Age
You are aged between 18 and 65.
Although in some countries national legislation permits 16–17 year-olds to donate provided that they fulfil the physical and haematological criteria required and that appropriate consent is obtained. While regular donors above the age of 65 may be accepted at the discretion of the responsible physician. The upper age limit in some countries is 60.
Weight
You weigh at least 50 kg
Health
You cannot donate blood If you do not meet the minimum haemoglobin level for blood donation, as earlier said, you must be in good and optimal health before you can donate. Individuals with a cold, flu, sore throat, cold sore, stomach bug or any other infection cannot donate.
Travel
Travel to areas where mosquito-borne infections are endemic, e.g. malaria, dengue and Zika virus infections, may result in a temporary deferral.
Many countries also implemented the policy to defer blood donors with a history of travel or residence for defined cumulative exposure periods in specified countries or areas as a measure to reduce the risk of transmitting variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (vCJD) by blood transfusion.
Other criteria who aren’t eligible for blood donation include:
- Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers
- Menstruating women and women in Postpartum
- Individuals who have been tested positive for HIV (AIDS virus)
- Have ever injected recreational drugs.
Benefits of donating blood
Donating blood might feel daunting at first, but it’s a simple process with the potential to save lives.
The impact of blood donation is immeasurable. According to the American Red Cross, a single donation can save up to three lives.
But the benefits don’t stop there. Donating blood isn’t just good for recipients—it also offers health advantages for donors. According to a report by the Mental Health Foundation, helping others can:
- reduce stress
- improve your emotional well-being
- benefit your physical health
- help get rid of negative feelings
- provide a sense of belonging and reduce isolation
Research has found further evidence of the health benefits that come specifically from donating blood.
Side effects of donating blood
Blood donation is safe for healthy adults, with no risk of contracting diseases. Each donor is provided with new, sterile equipment to ensure safety.
Some donors may experience mild side effects like nausea, lightheadedness, or dizziness. These sensations usually pass within a few minutes. If you feel unwell, lie down with your feet elevated until you feel better.
Minor bleeding at the needle site can also occur. Applying pressure and raising your arm for a few minutes will typically stop it. You may notice some bruising afterward, which is normal.
Contact the blood donation centre if:
- You continue to feel lightheaded, dizzy, or nauseous after drinking fluids, eating, and resting.
- You develop a raised bump or prolonged bleeding at the needle site.
- You experience arm pain, numbness, or tingling.
Donating blood is a generous and life-saving act that comes with minimal risk and plenty of rewards. By staying informed about the process and potential side effects, you can donate with confidence, knowing that your contribution is making a real difference. If you ever feel unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out to your local blood donation centre for support and guidance. Your donation could be the lifeline someone desperately needs.
References:
- World Health Organization. Who can give blood? 2020. Available at: https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-blood-donor-day/2020/who-can-give-blood [Accessed 5 September 2024]
- Healthline. The Benefits of Donating Blood, May 23, 2023. Available at: https://www.healthline.com/health/benefits-of-donating-blood [Accessed 5 September 2024]
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