Blood Donation: Benefits, Requirements, and Preparation
Every day, blood and its components are essential in hospitals for managing emergencies, performing surgeries, and treating serious conditions such as cancer, leukemia, and chronic anemia. Donating blood can save lives and is a profound act of generosity.
What Is Blood Made Of?
Components of Blood and Their Functions
Blood consists of a cellular part and a liquid part (plasma):
- White blood cells (leukocytes): Defend the body from infections.
- Red blood cells (erythrocytes): Transport oxygen and remove carbon dioxide.
- Platelets: Help blood to clot.
- Plasma: Transports nutrients, hormones, proteins, and antibodies.
Why Is Blood Important?
Blood enables gas exchange, nutrient transport, body temperature regulation, and immune response. After donation, each component is separated for specific therapeutic uses, such as:
- Red blood cells: For patients with severe bleeding or chronic anemia.
- Plasma: For burns, liver diseases, or production of plasma-derived medications.
Why Blood Donation Is Also Good for Donors
Health Screening and Calories Burned
Every donation is preceded by a medical checkup. In addition, donating blood involves a significant energy expenditure: up to 650 calories can be burned, accelerating blood regeneration.
Less Excess Iron, Lower Risk
Excess iron can cause hemochromatosis and increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Regular blood donation helps keep iron levels in check.
Lower Risk of Cancer and Heart Attacks
Donating blood may reduce the incidence of certain cancers and lower cardiovascular risk by up to 88%, due to reduced blood viscosity and decreased iron oxidation.
Who Can Donate Blood?
General Requirements
- Age: Between 18 and 65 (up to 70 with medical approval).
- Weight: Minimum of 50 kg (110 lbs).
- Good general health.
Mandatory Medical Checks
- Blood pressure: Within acceptable limits (max 180/100 mmHg).
- Heart rate: Between 50 and 100 bpm.
- Hemoglobin: ≥13.5 g/dL for men, ≥12.5 g/dL for women.
Special Cases: Illnesses and Medications
It is essential to inform the medical staff about any past or current illnesses or medications. In some cases, temporary or permanent exclusion from donation may apply.
How to Prepare for Donation
Helpful Tips Before Donating Blood
- Duration: 10–15 minutes for whole blood, 45–50 minutes for plasma.
- Clothing: Wear short sleeves or sleeves that can be easily rolled up.
- Rest: Get a good night's sleep before and avoid strenuous activity afterward.
- Diet: Eat light meals; avoid fatty foods.
- Medications: If donating platelets, avoid aspirin for two days prior.
Where to Donate Blood?
You can donate at:
- Authorized public hospitals
- Blood transfusion centers
- AVIS centers, the Red Cross, and other recognized organizations
For more information: Italian National Blood Center